Bae Hyun-jin criticizes acting leader Jang Dong-hyuk over delayed candidate nominations

The internal wrangling within the People Power Party over candidate nominations for the upcoming local elections has taken a sharp turn, with Rep. Bae Hyun-jin directly accusing acting party leader Jang Dong-hyuk of "holding back candidates." Bae's pointed remarks, made via social media upon Jang's return from a US trip, suggest a deep-seated frustration with the party's leadership and its handling of the nomination process.

“

Is the first thing you do upon returning home to postpone the candidate nominations?

Bae, who also serves as the Seoul City Party Chairperson, argues that Jang's decision to postpone the approval of nominations, which had been meticulously reviewed by the city party for over a month, is not only "typical of Jang Dong-hyuk's political sense" but also a significant impediment to candidates who are eager to begin their campaigns. She asserts that the Central Party's Clean Support Team reviewing the city party's decisions is an overreach of authority, a point that even party insiders reportedly acknowledge.

The situation is further complicated by reports of a Supreme Council member suggesting that the party's central committee might take over the nomination for a specific district (Gwanak-gu), a move Bae deems impossible according to party rules and a mere "bluff" that demoralizes candidates. This internal conflict, particularly the perceived disregard for the city party's efforts and the candidates' urgency, is seen as a self-inflicted wound that could jeopardize the party's chances in the local elections.

“

Holding back candidates who are in a hurry for the local elections is now entering its third week.

From our perspective at Dong-A Ilbo, this public spat underscores a critical need for decisive and unified leadership within the People Power Party. While Western media might focus on the surface-level political drama, we see this as a symptom of deeper issues concerning internal party democracy and the effective selection of candidates who can genuinely connect with local constituents. The party's ability to overcome these internal divisions and present a united front will be crucial for its success, and Bae's sharp critique serves as a stark warning that time is running out.

“

The fact that the Central Party's Clean Support Team is re-examining the decisions of the city party itself is an overreach of authority.

We are watching closely to see if the party leadership, including Jang Dong-hyuk, will heed this warning and address the "significant infringement on the discretionary power of the city party" that Bae highlights. The upcoming Supreme Council meeting on Thursday is a key moment for the party to demonstrate its commitment to a fair and efficient nomination process, lest they continue to "embarrass themselves" as Bae suggests.

“

Now is the time for everyone to do their part in their respective positions and do their best for the victory of the local elections.