Choi Jung-sik, elected as the Speaker of the 22nd National Assembly, and Prime Minister Kim Min-seok agreed on June 10 that a thorough investigation into the ballot shortage incident during the June 3 local elections is necessary. Choi also urged Kim, who recently expressed his intention to resign, to play a significant role in the National Assembly as a senior lawmaker.
During their meeting at the National Assembly, Choi and Kim discussed the ballot shortage issue, strategies for implementing the government’s agenda as the Lee Jae-myung administration enters its second year, and ways to enhance cooperation between the National Assembly and the executive branch.
Choi stated, "Prime Minister Kim has worked hard as the first prime minister of the Lee Jae-myung administration. The National Assembly is a key partner in governance alongside the executive branch," adding, "We will closely communicate with the executive branch to improve the lives of the people and revitalize the economy. I hope the executive branch will also respect and cooperate with the National Assembly."
In response, Kim remarked, "Speaker Choi, who has strong interpersonal skills and a deep understanding of politics, will play a crucial role in addressing various issues facing South Korea as the head of the National Assembly. President Lee Jae-myung has also mentioned the need for swift legislation. I hope Speaker Choi demonstrates outstanding leadership."
Both Choi and Kim emphasized the need for a thorough investigation into the ballot shortage incident. Choi noted, "The citizens' right to vote has been compromised. The Blue House has recognized this as a significant event that undermines the trust in election administration, which is the foundation of procedural democracy," and announced that the National Assembly will hold a plenary session on June 11 to review the requests for a national investigation submitted by both ruling and opposition parties.
Kim also stressed, "We must pursue reforms at the level of dismantling the National Election Commission. We need to maintain a strong awareness that there must be no infringement on the citizens' right to vote."
Additionally, Choi addressed Kim's anticipated return to the National Assembly following his resignation as Prime Minister, outlining the important role he should play as a lawmaker.
Choi remarked, "Prime Minister Kim has designed the governance of the Lee Jae-myung administration and has led the cabinet with outstanding and stable leadership, achieving many results. If he returns to the National Assembly, I expect him to play a significant role in advancing the National Assembly and politics with his extensive governance experience."
Meanwhile, Choi's office revealed that during their meeting, Kim requested Choi to expedite the confirmation hearing for Han Seung-sook, the new Prime Minister nominee, to minimize any governance vacuum.
Press Secretary Jang Hyun-joo stated, "In the closed-door meeting, Prime Minister Kim mentioned that he understands the confirmation hearing request for the nominee will soon be submitted to the National Assembly, emphasizing the need to minimize governance gaps and urging for a swift hearing. Speaker Choi agreed and expressed his intention to facilitate an agreement between the ruling and opposition parties."
* This article has been translated by AI.
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