Nationalist Party Leader Accused of Dodging Responsibility Amid Election Controversy

Jang Dong-hyuk, leader of the People Power Party, has reignited controversy by demanding a rerun election, citing a shortage of ballots. This move comes despite his earlier absence from a party meeting where his leadership was to be discussed. Jang's claims extend to suggesting the entire local election results are invalid, a stance that has drawn sharp criticism from within his own party.

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The ballot shortage is not just a problem for Seoul.

His actions have been interpreted as a desperate attempt to deflect mounting pressure for his resignation. Critics point to his sudden appearance at a vote-counting center to argue against the removal of ballot boxes and his subsequent calls for abolishing early voting, linking the ballot shortage to conspiracy theories of election fraud. This strategy is seen as a way to rally his hardline supporters and distract from accountability for the party's significant election defeat.

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We will fight together with those demanding a rerun election.

Senior and junior members of the People Power Party, across different factions, have voiced their demands for Jang's resignation. Even Seoul Mayor Oh Se-hoon has distanced himself from Jang, reportedly demanding a break from the 'Yoon Again' faction associated with him. While many elected officials supported by Jang faced defeat, he has offered no word of responsibility for the election loss. His continued maneuvering is seen as detrimental to the conservative party's efforts to rebuild.

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He is using this as a shield to cover up demands for his resignation.