Conflict Erupts in People Power Party Over Leadership Resignation Demand

On June 18, the People Power Party experienced another clash during its Supreme Council meeting over calls for the resignation of leader Jang Dong-hyuk. Woo Jae-jun, a Supreme Council member aligned with the pro-Han Dong-hoon faction, demanded that Jang step down before the fall, prompting a warning from floor leader Jung Jong-sik to refrain from public comments in the meeting.

During the morning meeting at the National Assembly, Woo stated, "I hope our leadership can conclude its term at least before the fall, once the situation with the National Election Commission is somewhat resolved. This would alleviate suspicions that our leadership is using the election commission crisis for political gain and allow us to focus our party's efforts. If that happens, I will personally support Leader Jang."

In response, fellow Supreme Council member Jo Kwang-han criticized Woo, saying, "When our party takes the microphone, there are many who speak in a foreign language, making it very embarrassing to hold the microphone."

At the end of the meeting, Jung addressed the Supreme Council members, emphasizing, "The Supreme Council is our party's highest decision-making body. Here, refined opinions from the party leadership should be expressed, and it should serve as a forum to discuss how to curb the reckless actions of the Yoon Seok-yeol administration and the Democratic Party."

He added, "Expressing opinions that could be discussed in pre-meetings or closed sessions as public comments in the Supreme Council only showcases the disarray among our party and its members. Regarding personal matters, anyone can speak publicly to reporters outside without fear of criticism. As I mentioned in our last closed meeting, I earnestly request that our committee members demonstrate the dignity of our party."

Jang also reportedly expressed dissatisfaction towards Woo. Chief Spokesperson Choi Bo-yoon told reporters after the Supreme Council meeting, "The party leader mentioned that he hopes Woo can play a good role as a young politician in our party. He also suggested that instead of only voicing internal criticisms to the media, we should focus on fighting for the acceptance of the special investigation law and reforming the election commission, which would resonate more with the public and party members."