Ahn Ho-young, a member of the National Assembly, has entered a hunger strike demanding a re-investigation into allegations regarding Lee Won-taek's reimbursement of meal expenses during the Jeonbuk gubernatorial primary of the Democratic Party. This has intensified conflicts within the party, particularly targeting the indifferent attitude of party leader Jeong Cheong-rae.
On the 12th day of Ahn's hunger strike, Lee Un-joo, the party's senior spokesperson, and Kang Deuk-gu, a party member, held a press conference outside the National Assembly's tent protest site. They stated, "We have come to request that Ahn stop his hunger strike."
Lee emphasized the need for a thorough investigation into the allegations against Lee Won-taek, comparing it to the previous cash envelope scandal involving former Jeonbuk Governor Kim Gwan-young. She expressed concern that the party might be overlooking procedural and fairness issues due to overly optimistic public sentiment regarding the local elections.
"Demonstrating fairness is a minimal obligation to voters, the public, and the president," Lee said, questioning how the party leader could remain indifferent while a fellow member is on a hunger strike. She urged, "We must reflect on how the party has reached this point and show at least a basic level of respect to someone who is protesting in this manner."
Lee also criticized Jeong's recent actions, noting that while one side is quietly suffering, the party leadership appears to be enjoying a photo opportunity on a boat in Yeongju.
Kang Deuk-gu echoed Lee's sentiments, urging Jeong to pay attention to Ahn's plight. He expressed feelings of immense responsibility and even shame as a member of the party leadership.
Meanwhile, Kim Gwan-young, who has publicly supported Ahn, visited the protest site on the same day.
* This article has been translated by AI.
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