Ruling Party Postpones Vote on Direct Election of Local Chapter Chairpersons Amid Internal Opposition

The ruling People Power Party has hit the brakes on a controversial proposal to allow party members to directly elect local chapter chairpersons. The leadership, led by Jang Dong-hyuk, had planned to put the measure to a vote at a supreme council meeting on August 24, but it was ultimately postponed.

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We did not put it on the agenda for today's meeting to make a balanced and rational decision.

This marks the second time the proposal has been stalled, following a similar deferral on August 20. The delay comes amid public concerns voiced by floor leader Chung Jin-suk and widespread opposition expressed during a general meeting of lawmakers. Many, particularly from the Yeongnam region and senior party members, have voiced their disapproval, citing fears of internal division and chaos.

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We need to find a rational plan and discuss it at the next supreme council meeting.

Chung Jin-suk reportedly urged Jang Dong-hyuk over the weekend to conduct further discussions before a decision, acknowledging the need to organize party chapters based on members' will but warning against exacerbating internal rifts. Even Supreme Council member Yang Hyang-ja, previously seen as supportive, expressed concerns that the reform could be perceived as an attempt to centralize power or oust specific factions, advocating for a unanimous decision on the method of reform.

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We need to organize the party chapters reflecting the will of the party members, but there is a concern that internal divisions could be highlighted, leading to greater confusion.

With internal dissent growing and the outcome of a vote becoming uncertain, the leadership decided against bringing the proposal to a vote. However, the party's stance that the principle of member-led organization remains unchanged suggests that internal disputes may resurface. A party spokesperson emphasized the proposal's necessity for transforming the party into a more combative opposition that listens to its members.

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The reform of party chapters should not be seen as an attempt to privatize the party or expel a specific faction. It would be good to decide on the method of party chapter reform by unanimous consent, not by majority.