GNP Wary of Ex-Party Chief’s Comeback

Lee Hoi-chang , former head of the Grand National Party (GNP), said in a lecture this month, “It is my duty not to let the left wing take power again,” announcing his intention to return to the political stage, which caused a stir in the GNP.

GNP lawmakers and party members generally hold a pessimistic view of Lee’s return to politics.

A veteran assemblyman in the metropolitan area voiced his criticism, saying, “Lee may say that it was beyond his power, but he was responsible for enabling the left wing administration rule for the past ten years by heading a party with an image of corrupt conservatism in Korean society,” and added, “The GNP has barely shed that image, so who would want him back at this stage?”

Kang Jae-sup, head of the GNP, said on November 19 in an interview with Dong-A.com, “Lee was a presidential candidate for the GNP twice,” and firmly stated, “if he wishes the party well, we hope that he only shows his interest for our party in the next administration.”

Park Geun-hye, former head of the GNP, held a press conference in Busan on November 21 and said, “He headed the opposition party and served as a presidential candidate, so it’s only natural that he is concerned with the nation’s affairs,” but added cautiously, “he has already mentioned (his retirement), and second-guessing his intentions would be disrespecting him.”

One party member said, “Whenever I leave the main gates of the National Assembly and look at the old GNP headquarters, I keep thinking about the person responsible for all this, so who would welcome him back?” and added, “the young party members are all pessimistic.”

One assemblyman said, “I would oppose Lee coming back as a presidential candidate. He should stop at being a mediator during the preliminary and main elections.” Lee will continue his political march, with lectures scheduled at Yonsei University on November 30 and at the GNP Central Committee on December 5.

taylor55@donga.com