People Power Party Leader Calls for Caution on Disciplinary Actions, Criticizes Opposition

Jeong Jin-seok, the floor leader of South Korea's People Power Party, has stated that decisions regarding disciplinary actions against party members have not been finalized and emphasized the need for a cautious approach. His remarks come amidst internal discussions about potential penalties for certain party figures.

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Disciplinary actions against lawmakers have not yet been decided, so it is difficult to answer now.

Speaking to reporters after attending a forum on inheritance tax reform, Jeong noted that while disciplinary measures have been foreshadowed, the specific procedures and outcomes remain undetermined. This follows comments from Rep. Kim Jae-sup, who criticized the party's leadership for only considering disciplinary action when it involves expelling or excluding members, questioning the consistent application of the ethics committee's procedures.

Jeong also voiced strong criticism of the main opposition Democratic Party for unilaterally electing the chairpersons for 11 standing committees, including the Special Committee on Budget and Accounts. He described the move as a continuation of what he termed the "tyranny of the majority," echoing similar actions from 2024 and expressing regret over the situation, which he believes was facilitated by the National Assembly speaker and other officials siding with the majority party's actions.

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The Democratic Party has, following 2024, effectively stolen the Legislation and Judiciary Committee. I believe it is the result of many people, including the National Assembly speaker, condoning the majority party's 폭거 (tyranny/outrage), and I still express my regret.

The People Power Party is scheduled to hold a general meeting on July 2 to deliberate on its stance regarding further personnel appointments for the National Assembly and to strategize future protest measures. Additionally, Jeong expressed his disagreement with Democratic Party floor leader Han Byung-do's proposal to revise the filibuster and fast-track systems, arguing that these mechanisms are crucial for protecting minority parties and facilitating dialogue and compromise in legislative processes.

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It is difficult to agree with unilaterally revising systems that protect minority parties and process agendas through dialogue and compromise.