Ruling party advisor urges leader to quit as MP after election loss

Lee Hae-chan, a senior advisor for South Korea's ruling People Power Party, has called for party leader Jang Dong-hyuk to resign not only from his leadership position but also from his seat in the National Assembly. Lee stated that Jang's refusal to step down following the party's substantial defeat in the recent local elections is an unacceptable political maneuver.

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It is truly an unacceptable situation to stubbornly cling on like that.

Speaking on a radio program, Lee emphasized that it is a political convention for party leaders to resign after major election losses, regardless of their remaining term. He likened Jang's persistence in his role to a defiant, almost thuggish attitude, stating, "It is truly an unacceptable situation to stubbornly cling on like that."

Lee warned that if Jang remains in power, the party is destined for failure in the upcoming general elections. He argued that the party must either be dissolved now or face a similar fate later. To salvage the party, Lee believes a complete reset is necessary, starting with Jang's resignation and the stepping down of all supreme council members to allow for a fresh start. He expressed concern that the party is eroding the last vestiges of public hope.

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If the People Power Party continues to act like this, they will suffer a devastating defeat in the general elections.

Addressing Jang's disciplinary actions within the party, Lee questioned the rationale behind punishing members for criticizing the leadership. He asserted that the party's discipline is failing precisely because individuals who should leave are not doing so. Lee concluded by stating that the party is currently losing the last hope of the public.

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If you've lost so badly, you should resign not only as party leader but also as a member of the National Assembly.