Discussion over Impeachment

As the Uri Party has won the most seats at the 17th general election, the discussion over the impeachment of President Roh Moo-hyun began in earnest.

“The general election reflected the nation’s will accurately. We should finish this abnormal situation as soon as possible,” urged Acting President Goh Kun in his special statement to the nation at the Central Government Complex on April 16.

Uri Party Chairman Chung Dong-young said at a press conference, “The general election showed the impeachment of the president was against the nation’s will. Even though the impeachment requires the legal steps of the Constitutional Court, it should be withdrawn considering a consensus of public opinion.”

Chung suggested a bipartisan conference of key leaders by saying, “Let’s discuss the impeachment and the way of economic revival at a bipartisan conference as soon as possible.”

“The result of the election is asking the politicians to discuss the impeachment again. We should reach an understanding, regardless of the positive law,” said Kwon Young-ghil, leader of the Democratic Labor Party, also suggesting a tripartite conference of party leaders.

However, Park Geun-hye, chairwoman of the main opposition Grand National Party, made her position clear at a press conference by saying, “The impeachment is not a matter we can discuss and decide any more. We have to wait and respect the decision of the Constitutional Court.” Park revealed she would accept a bipartisan conference if there are no preconditions.

“If President Roh apologizes to the nation first without any conditions, the opposition parties will take action naturally,” said GNP’s chief campaign strategist Yoon Yeo-joon mentioning his personal opinion that the current situation can be solved by President Roh.

Young-Chan Yoon Jong-Koo Yoon yyc11@donga.com jkmas@donga.com