Roh Urged Neutral Cabinet

Roh Moo-hyun, presidential candidate of the Millennium Democratic Party (MDP) urged President Kim Dae-jung, on the 4th, to form a neutral Cabinet and appoint chiefs of election-related government agencies including prime minister, justice minister and home affairs minister on the recommendation of the opposition Grand National Party. His remarks were designed to end incessant political strife and ensure the fairness of the presidential election.

Roh proposed Lee Hoi-chang, GNP presidential candidate, to hold a meeting to promote an anti-corruption legislation.

Roh said at a press conference at the MDP headquarters in Yoido, "I propose that corruption cases be investigated in accordance with law and principles without an sanctuary by appointing a figure recommended by the GNP as justice minister."

He added, "I will give up all vested interests as the presidential candidate of the ruling party in order to ensure the fair competition in the presidential election. The spate of allegations, which took place in the current government have to be addressed before president Kim`s term in office expires."

Roh also suggested that the rival parties agree to pass an anti-corruption legislation within this year.

As part of the legislation to combat corruption, the MDP presidential candidate called for the extension of confirmation hearing to such posts as prosecutor general, director of the National Intelligence Service, commissioner of the National Tax Service and Police chief, and the establishment of an agency charged with investigating corruption cases involving the family members and relatives of the president, and senior government officials.

He also floated ideas of using check in case of contributing money surpassing a given amount, abolishing the prosecution prescription for those involved in corruption scandals and confiscating their property accumulated by illegal means.

Regarding Rep. Kim Hong-il and the Peace Foundation for the Asia-Pacific Region, Roh said, "It is up to the president and Rep. Kim themselves. I hope they will make an appropriate decision that respects the people`s needs."