Chu Kyung-ho: "We Must Appoint Joo Ho-young as Head of Election Committee... Time to Unite"

In the crucial lead-up to the local elections, People Power Party (PPP) Daegu mayoral candidate Chu Kyung-ho has made a significant overture towards consolidating party support by calling for the appointment of veteran lawmaker Joo Ho-young as the head of the election committee. Chu lauded Joo's extensive experience and his pivotal role in nurturing the conservative base in Daegu, framing him as the ideal figure to lead the campaign. This move appears to be a strategic effort to bridge any internal divides and present a united front, especially as the election date looms.

Chu expressed confidence that Joo, who had previously expressed reservations during the party's primary process, would soon embrace a leadership role. He suggested that Joo might need a brief period to finalize his political plans before fully committing to the campaign. The candidate's remarks indicate a desire to leverage Joo's influence and political capital to maximize the PPP's chances of victory in Daegu, a traditional stronghold of conservatism.

Furthermore, Chu addressed the internal discussions regarding the party leader's position, dismissing suggestions of a leadership change so close to the elections. He stressed the paramount importance of party solidarity and collective effort towards securing a win in the local elections. This stance underscores the PPP's focus on electoral success over internal party maneuvering at this critical juncture. The candidate also touched upon the controversy surrounding former presidential aide Jung Jin-suk's candidacy, deferring judgment to the party's nomination committee to assess public sentiment and electoral viability.

Chu also took aim at his main rival, Kim Bu-gyeom of the Democratic Party, questioning his past contributions to Daegu's development during his tenure in the Moon Jae-in administration. Chu vowed to become a mayor who revitalizes the economy and pledged to protect Daegu's political power, emphasizing the need for conservative forces to maintain control in the region. This framing highlights the intense inter-party rivalry and the high stakes involved in the Daegu mayoral race, where regional identity and economic development are key issues.