Ruling Party Urges Opposition to Stop Political Strife Ahead of Chuseok

The Democratic Party urged the People Power Party on September 22 to cease its political strife, particularly as it plans to hold a 'national report meeting' criticizing the administration of President Lee Jae-myung ahead of the Chuseok holiday.

During a meeting at the National Assembly, Han Byeong-do, the party's floor leader, stated, "Instead of focusing on the people's needs during Chuseok, they are once again trying to stir up political conflict."

Han emphasized that the government has proactively responded to alleviate public burdens by allocating 193 billion won for discounts on agricultural, livestock, and fishery products, waiving highway tolls during the holiday, and reducing fuel prices at rest areas by 100 won per liter.

He noted that President Lee has directly addressed issues that the People Power Party has used for political conflict, asserting that he has no intention of seeking re-election and has requested the National Assembly to remove the prosecution's right to dismiss charges in the special investigation law regarding fabricated charges.

Despite this, Han criticized the People Power Party for continuing its unproductive political strife and opportunistic criticism, stating, "No matter what the president does, they immediately respond with criticism, engaging in blind obstruction of government affairs."

In response to the opposition's comments labeling President Lee's trip to the U.S. and Mexico as 'collecting mileage for a world tour,' Han remarked, "Diminishing diplomacy to mere mileage only harms the nation, not the president or the Democratic Party," urging them to stop their low-level political attacks that do not contribute to national interests.

Kwon Chil-seung, the party's policy chief, also criticized the People Power Party for attempting to turn the upcoming parliamentary audit into a 'political audit' by bringing up external political issues. He stated, "As the saying goes, 'a broken clock is right twice a day,' both parties must work together for livelihood legislation. For a people-centered regular session, discussions on livelihood bills should take place in the National Assembly, not outside of it."