The Democratic Party announced on June 9 that it plans to implement significant reforms to the National Election Commission (NEC) following a shortage of voting papers during the June 3 local elections. The party stated it will establish an internal task force (TF) to expedite the reform process, with activities set to begin on June 10.
Party officials condemned the situation, labeling it a serious infringement on voting rights. They emphasized the need for comprehensive reforms within the NEC.
Han Jeong-ae, the party's policy chief, remarked during a National Assembly meeting, "This incident has undermined public trust in voting rights. A constitutional body created solely for election management has failed in its duties."
She added, "On June 8, the Democratic Party submitted a request for a national investigation. We will work swiftly with the opposition to thoroughly uncover the facts surrounding this incident and clarify accountability. We are also open to discussions about a special investigation. Our goal is not just to identify the issues but to develop improvement measures for the NEC as a whole."
Cheon Jun-ho, the party's deputy floor leader, emphasized the need for collaboration among the executive, judicial, and legislative branches to resolve the issue, stating, "Reforming the NEC is a timely task. Now it is the National Assembly's turn to respond, given the national-level discussions that have taken place."
He also mentioned, "We will create pathways for the public to monitor the NEC. If current constitutional provisions are problematic, we must consider amending the constitution."
The Democratic Party has announced its intention to form a task force to address the NEC's significant reforms stemming from this incident.
Lee Joo-hee, the party's spokesperson, told reporters after the meeting that the task force on electoral reform will hold its first meeting at 11 a.m. on June 10. She stated, "The task force will thoroughly and swiftly explore a comprehensive review of the electoral management system and legislative activities."
She added, "The task force will be led by Representative Song Gi-heon, with members including Representatives Kim Young-bae, Park Sang-hyuk, Lee Hae-sik, Park Kyun-taek, Park Hee-seung, Lee Jeong-heon, Lee Joo-hee, and Lim Mi-ae."
* This article has been translated by AI.
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