Oh Se-hoon: 'By-election calls are wasteful... stop slogans for self-preservation'

Seoul Mayor Oh Se-hoon strongly criticized a proposal for a nationwide by-election, put forth by Jang Dong-hyuk, a leader within the ruling People Power Party. Oh labeled the suggestion a "wasteful slogan" aimed at self-preservation, urging the party leadership to cease such rhetoric and instead heed the "stern voice of the people."

Oh stated on Facebook that the recent shortage of ballot papers during the June 3 local elections represents an unprecedented and grave infringement on the right to vote in the nation's democratic history. He argued that the party's immediate priorities should be a thorough investigation into the incident, the punishment of those responsible, and fundamental reforms to the election system.

"Instead, Representative Jang Dong-hyuk is leading the entire party into a wasteful 'by-election proposal,'" Oh pointed out. He questioned the sincerity of the proposal, suggesting the public is aware whether it stems from a genuine pursuit of truth or a strategic maneuver to protect a "shaky political position."

The mayor specifically addressed the "pure aspirations" of young voters, particularly those in their 20s and 30s, who participated in protests. He cautioned against their enthusiasm being "consumed as fuel for a specific politician's political survival." Oh emphasized that these young citizens were not on the streets to become "political shields" but to restore fairness, common sense, and electoral justice.

Oh outlined what he believes the People Power Party should focus on: conducting a parliamentary inquiry and a special prosecutor investigation to uncover the full truth and hold those accountable. He also called for a fundamental reform of the National Election Commission, potentially to the point of dissolution. "The reality that the golden time to restore public trust is being wasted due to one person's political calculations is deeply concerning," he said, expressing hope that an upcoming party meeting would set the right direction.