President Lee expresses deep regret over election ballot shortage, demands accountability

President Lee Jae-myung on Thursday expressed profound regret over the ballot shortage that disrupted voting in some areas during South Korea's local elections. Addressing a senior secretaries' meeting at the presidential office, Lee emphasized the fundamental duty of all state institutions to meticulously prepare for the exercise of citizens' sacred right to vote.

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It is difficult to comprehend that such an unacceptable lapse has occurred in election management, which must be absolutely thorough in a democratic republic.

"It is difficult to comprehend that such an unacceptable lapse has occurred in election management, which must be absolutely thorough in a democratic republic," Lee stated, referencing reports of voters being turned away or facing long waits due to insufficient ballots in areas like Jamsil, Seoul.

The President stressed that relevant agencies must utilize all available administrative powers to clearly identify the reasons behind the problem. He called for accountability for any responsible parties and urged the swift implementation of reliable measures to ensure that no citizen's right to participate in elections is compromised again.

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All state agencies must ensure no gaps occur during the sacred act of voting.

Thursday also marked President Lee's first anniversary in office. He acknowledged the timing, noting, "It seems today marks my first anniversary in office. It is unfortunate that it coincided with the local elections, which have now concluded." He extended congratulations to the winners and offered condolences to those who did not achieve their desired results.

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Relevant agencies must utilize all available administrative powers to clearly identify the reasons behind the problem and hold those responsible accountable.

Looking ahead, President Lee urged political parties to act as partners in safeguarding the public's welfare and shaping the nation's future, regardless of election outcomes. He called for a unified focus on improving livelihoods, promoting balanced regional development, and fostering national unity. The government, he assured, would humbly accept the people's will and actively cooperate with local governments, irrespective of their political affiliations.

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Political parties should act as partners in safeguarding the public's welfare and shaping the nation's future.