[Editorial] Rush to Appoint New Deputy Prime Minister for Education

Ten days into his term of office, President Roh Moo-hyun has yet to appoint a new deputy prime minister for education, which is very disappointing. It is unseemly that while the appointments to vice ministerial posts as well as other ministerial posts were completed, the new government has failed to find a proper figure for new education minister and deputy prime minister, thereby creating a vacuum in the Ministry of Education.

In fact, it is true that the appointment is being delayed because civic groups and Internet users have shown strong opposition to a series of candidates for that post. However, this is a weak excuse for the delay. To the timing of the inauguration of the new government, the line-up of the new cabinet should be prepared. What did the new government do during the two-month transition period after the election?

A person who was considered a strong candidate declined the appointment, faced with personal attacks by civic groups and Internet users. Other candidates are facing the same situation. That certain candidates are branded "anti-reform" and their appointment is described as counter to the reform drive is creating a tense atmosphere. It is all the more worrisome that the slogan of the new government, "participatory government" is being put to bad use in this situation.

Of course, civic groups are entitled to show their approval or opposition for those candidates under consideration for new prime minister for education post. However, if their opinions are so inflated that they are representing the public, and they sway the government’s decision making, it is not right. Civic groups should serve only as a good reference. In this case, Cheong Wa Dae’s path only shows its failure to act according to its convictions.

The more delayed the appointment of a new deputy prime minister for education becomes, the heavier the burden the new prime minister will have to bear. There is even skepticism that in this situation, even an able figure cannot work in the education administration following his convictions. As President Roh said, the new educational prime minister will work with him through his five-year term of office. Many eyes are on the decision of Cheong Wa Dae.