Pres. Roh Hints at Vetoing Gov’t Reorganization Bill

President Roh Moo-hyun hinted yesterday at vetoing the government reorganization bill proposed by President-elect Lee Myung-bak`s transition committee, urging Lee to sign the bill himself after his Feb. 25 inauguration.

In an emergency news conference at the presidential office of Cheong Wa Dae, Roh criticized the incoming government’s proposed reforms.

"To sign something that demolishes the philosophy and values fostered by the Participatory Government would be an admission that our approach was wrong," he said.

President-elect Lee wants to shut, merge or reduce six ministries once he takes office.

“The new administration will face a major snag if I veto the bill after it passes the National Assembly,” Roh said. “I am making the announcement before the bill`s passage because I want to avoid all criticism and charges of stonewalling ahead of the launch of the new government.”

With Roh signaling his intent not to sign the bill even if it passes, the new administration’s streamlining measures are likely to face challenges.

He also denounced the transition committee, saying, “The presidential transition committee should do what is allowed by law. Its demands for assessment of the Participatory Government’s achievements and creation of new plans from government officials have put an enormous burden on the incumbent president. I believe those measures are overstepping the transition committee’s authority.”

Committee spokesman Lee Dong-gwan hit back by saying, “President Roh has argued as if the committee came up with a rough and ready reform plan at the news conference. This demonstrates his unique arrogance and self-complacency.”

“We urge him to do his best to show dignity and grace as an outgoing president who prioritizes the nation’s future.”

jin0619@donga.com