The People Power Party initiated disciplinary actions on August 20, targeting several members, including its longest-serving lawmaker, Jo Kyung-tae. Jo received a suspension of 2 years and 6 months, while Kwon Young-jin was suspended for 1 year and 6 months, Jin Jong-o for 2 years, and Seo Beom-soo for 10 months. This move has raised questions about whether party leader Jang Dong-hyuk is seeking to consolidate power ahead of the upcoming 2028 general elections.
The party's Central Ethics Committee announced the disciplinary measures in a press release. Jo was penalized for allegedly pressuring lawmakers from other parties to vote against his party's candidate, Park Deok-heum, during the election of the National Assembly's vice speaker. Kwon was disciplined for physically confronting floor leader Jeong Jeom-sik in response to committee assignments, which was deemed a breach of party discipline.
Jin, considered part of the pro-Han Dong-hoon faction within the party, faced disciplinary action for supporting an independent candidate in the Busan North District by-election. Seo was involved in a controversy over inappropriate remarks related to the 'Busan roundhouse kick' incident. Although the victim has forgiven him, Seo could not escape punishment.
Following the announcement of the disciplinary actions, Seo issued a statement apologizing for his careless remarks that caused distress to the victim, the party, and the public. However, he expressed hope that the Ethics Committee's decision was not politically motivated to eliminate rivals within the party.
Some analysts interpret the disciplinary actions against these four members, who are seen as part of the non-establishment faction, as an attempt by Jang to strengthen his control over the party. With approximately 1 year and 8 months remaining until the 23rd general elections, there are concerns that these disciplinary measures could influence candidate nominations. Consequently, there is speculation that the affected members may pursue appeals against the decisions.
* This article has been translated by AI.
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