Ex-PM Won’t Join Existing Parties

The former prime minister Goh Kun said yesterday, “I will not join any existing political parties.”

Goh responded with the above to the question of whether he could join any existing political party in an exclusive interview with Dong-A Ilbo, saying, “It is no that I can definitely say.” Goh emphasized, with regard to the “National Hope Association” (tentative name) to be launched around the end of July to early August, that “it would mean neither a new party establishment nor an origination at this stage,” saying that “it would be an association for a kind of national campaign led by non-politicians.”

Goh seems to keep his position that he should be independent in political power rather than take the presidency of a specific political party, but is still thinking over whether to organize a new political party.

Regarding the fact that each political party, including the Uri Party, Democratic Party, and Grand National Party, is trying to associate with him, Goh said that “it is fortunate that the conflicting political parties think they could locate a political junction through me,” and that “I got convinced about the need for neutral integration.”

Regarding the question about the timing of presidential candidacy, Goh said that “I would announce it in a timely manner after considering the national prospect and my role,” and that “I would not be irresolute about the announcement.” He clearly showed his intention to make his best efforts once he decides to run for the presidency.

Goh expressed a qualified positive position to the constitutional amendment, saying, “It should not be used for political expediency. But, discussion on amending the constitution to resolve instability caused by differences between the president (tenure: five years) and national assembly members (tenure: four years) in election period is necessary at this stage.”

Goh opposed the parliamentary cabinet system, saying, “It is quite questionable that we should have a cabinet system where governmental turnover is frequent under divided conditions. It is also questionable that we have to undergo a new political experiment just because the long-standing presidential system has some problems.”

Regarding the result of the May 31 local election where the ruling party was crushed, Goh said, “It resulted from the self-righteousness of the Participatory Government. The absurd remarks made by Roh’s side, such as, “The president lives in the 21st Century, while the nation is still mired in despotism culture,” show this self-righteousness.

Chin-Ku Lee jin0619@donga.com sys1201@donga.com