The Largest Faction of NMDP Moves for the Parliamentary Government System

The middle of the road Reformist Forum (chairperson Rep. Chung Gyun-Hwan), the largest faction of the New Millennium Democratic Party, decided to discuss the amendment of the Constitution for instituting a parliamentary government system, including bicameral structure and government system.

Rep. Park Byung-Seok, spokesperson of MRF, said that "We agreed that it is time seriously to consider the amendment for a parliamentary system, including the bicameral structure and government system."

Rep. Park hinted that there may be a possible reorganization of political circles for the amendment of the constitution saying "There were opinions that the party needs to expand its borders in the direction of reform and development."

However, he added, "That does not mean we should make amendments before the Presidential election, but that we should seriously consider the amendment in the long run."

A core person of the faction said, "To make sure of the victory in the Presidential election, we need to broaden our base, including the United Liberal Democrats and Democratic People`s Party. Sharing the Electoral College may be an option."

Rhee In-Jae, Supreme Council member of NMDP, has suggested for the merger with ULD and chairperson Han Kwang-Ok also hinted that a new party may be formed before the Presidential election.

The ULD adopted a plan for the establishment of a `Pan National Organizing Council For Political Reformation and the Power Structure` for the party`s move to amend the Constitution for a parliamentary government system.

yyc11@donga.com