Cho Jeong-sik's 'incumbent president term limit amendment' throws a bomb at the ruling party convention

National Assembly Speaker Cho Jeong-sik has ignited a political firestorm with his remarks on constitutional amendments concerning incumbent presidential term limits. Cho stated that the decision on whether to allow current presidents to seek re-election should ultimately rest with the voters. This assertion has been interpreted as a strategic move, dropping a political "bomb" just before the ruling party's national convention.

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The issue of constitutional amendment for incumbent presidential term limits should ultimately be decided by the sovereign people.

The speaker's comments have drawn sharp criticism, particularly from opposition figures. Park Won-seok, a former lawmaker of the Justice Party, argued that Cho's position as National Assembly Speaker, the second-highest ranking official in the country, carries significant weight. Park emphasized that such sensitive political proposals should not be casually mentioned in press conferences, suggesting that the speaker's office demands a higher level of deliberation and responsibility.

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The speaker threw a bomb at the ruling party's national convention.

Following the backlash, Cho Jeong-sik later expressed regret for his statement. However, critics contend that a mere expression of regret is insufficient. They are calling for a full public apology, asserting that the gravity of his remarks necessitates a more formal and direct address to the nation. The debate highlights the contentious nature of constitutional reform and the delicate political maneuvering surrounding such proposals in South Korea.

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The position of National Assembly Speaker, the second-highest ranking official in the Republic of Korea, is heavy. It is not a position from which one can make a slip of the tongue at a press conference.