Ruling party leader questions rival's term, calls for swift resolution

A senior leader within South Korea's ruling People Power Party has cast doubt on the current party leader's ability to complete his term, suggesting a resolution to the leadership controversy is imminent.

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Can it really go until February?

Rep. Chung Jin-suk, the party's floor leader, stated that many lawmakers and the public likely believe the ongoing situation regarding party leadership needs to be resolved quickly. He implied that the current leader's term might not extend to February, as some political observers have speculated.

Chung acknowledged the calls for leadership renewal, including the potential resignation of the party leader. However, he stressed the importance of navigating these changes without causing further division within the party. He proposed that the party should listen to the opinions of its lawmakers and members through various consultations to determine the best course of action.

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I think many lawmakers and the public believe that this situation must be resolved as soon as possible.

Despite the calls for a swift resolution, Chung anticipates that deciding the party leader's fate may take time. He noted that the current leader seems focused on addressing public anger over alleged infringements on citizens' right to participate in elections, suggesting this broader political struggle might delay a decision on his leadership.

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We must listen to the voices of our lawmakers and party members through various meetings to resolve this issue.

Regarding the potential return of independent lawmaker Han Dong-hoon to the party, Chung indicated that the issue has not yet reached a stage for formal discussion within the party's general meetings. He expressed concern that this matter could reignite internal conflict.

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The fact that the issue of Rep. Han Dong-hoon's return to the party has not been raised in the general meeting indicates that the discussion is not yet mature in terms of timing and procedure.