Roh to Ministers: “Resign Any Time and Prepare to Run”

In a remark about the upcoming Apr. 9 general elections, President Roh Moo-hyun encouraged his ministers and vice ministers, planning to run for seats, to begin as soon as possible. “Those of you intending to run can freely hand in your resignation letter at any time and begin preparations,” said President Roh on Jan. 4.

Ministers and vice ministers planning to run for office will reportedly submit their resignation letters en masse soon after the Feb. 5 cabinet conference.

In accordance with election laws, those registering as candidates for the general elections are required to resign from public office 60 days before election day. This means they must submit their resignations by Feb. 9.

As of Jan. 18, the following ministers are expected to run as candidates: Labor Minister Lee Sang-su, Construction and Transportation Minister Lee Yong-seop, Home Affairs and Administration Minister Park Myeong-jae, and Planning and Budget Minister Jang Byeong-wan.

In response to President Roh’s comment, Grand National Party leader Shim Jae-chul criticized the president, saying, “It was a thoughtless comment lacking discretion required of a president who ought to be caring for the lives and security of the people to the end.”

jin0619@donga.com