Seoul, June 4: South Korean President Lee Jae-myung stated on Thursday that he will accept the results of the recent local elections with “humility” and will actively collaborate with all newly elected local governments, regardless of their political affiliations.
This statement was made during a meeting with senior advisors at the Cheong Wa Dae presidential office in Seoul. According to Yonhap News Agency, the ruling Democratic Party (DP) secured a majority of seats in the local and parliamentary by-elections held a day earlier. However, the crucial position of Seoul Mayor shifted to the opposition.
Despite this, the Democratic Party achieved victories in significant areas such as Busan, traditionally viewed as a conservative stronghold.
President Lee emphasized that, despite political competition, both the ruling and opposition parties should work as “partners” for the public good and the country’s future. He affirmed that the government will respect the public sentiment expressed in the election results and collaborate with all local governments.
He also urged political parties to focus on improving citizens’ lives, promoting balanced regional development, and fostering national unity now that the elections are over.
During the same meeting, the President expressed frustration over a major administrative error that occurred during the elections. Voting was temporarily halted at more than a dozen polling stations in Seoul due to a shortage of ballots, leading to controversy.
He remarked, “Election management is the most critical responsibility in a democratic system, and any negligence is unacceptable.” He called for a thorough investigation of this incident and accountability where necessary.
Following this event, protests occurred at some polling stations, where individuals questioned the electoral process and attempted to disrupt the counting. The main opposition party, the People Power Party, also demanded a re-election, which the election commission rejected.
President Lee appealed for unity and good governance, urging all parties to rise above political differences and emphasize cooperation and transparency.
Leave a Comment