On June 16, the Democratic Party discussed solutions to the ballot shortage issue that arose during the June 3 local elections and proposed reforms for the National Election Commission (NEC). The party indicated that it would pursue significant reforms of the NEC, including potential constitutional amendments.
The Democratic Party's task force for safeguarding citizens' voting rights held its second meeting in the National Assembly that afternoon, where they received a detailed report from the NEC regarding the ballot shortage incident.
Before the meeting commenced, task force leader Song Gi-hyun stated, "We will reassess the ballot shortage situation to rectify the serious infringement on voting rights. Today marks the beginning of our in-depth discussions."
He added, "The NEC has not been subject to oversight due to its status as an independent constitutional body. Mere self-reform is insufficient to address its current overall incompetence. If necessary, we will boldly improve the current constitution through amendments. We will focus solely on safeguarding voting rights, undistracted by political disputes."
Kim Young-bae, who serves as the deputy leader of the task force, argued for a two-step approach to reforming the NEC. He explained that the first step involves introducing a permanent chairperson for the NEC and expanding its commissioners, along with establishing an independent audit body, with legislation aimed for passage in the regular National Assembly session this year. The second step would involve pursuing necessary constitutional amendments by early 2027.
While requesting the cooperation of the People Power Party, which has called for the dissolution of the NEC, he urged them to engage in discussions and negotiations with reasonable alternatives rather than irresponsible political provocations, such as abolishing early voting.
* This article has been translated by AI.
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