PPP Leader Jang Dong-hyuk: 'Democratic Party and NEC Are a Cartel Devouring Democracy'

People Power Party (PPP) leader Jang Dong-hyuk criticized the ruling party and the National Election Commission (NEC) on the 10th, calling them a 'giant cartel devouring South Korean democracy.' Speaking at the 'June 3 National Parents’ Debate on Violation of Political Rights' held at the National Assembly, Jang claimed that Democratic Party leader Lee Jae-myung and his party are thoroughly protecting the irresponsible NEC.

Specifically, he alleged that the Democratic Party obstructed efforts to uncover the truth and blocked audits by the Board of Audit and Inspection during the NEC recruitment corruption scandal. He further pointed out that the party is attempting to establish the NEC as an agency above the law by pushing for legislation that imposes a 10-year prison sentence for criticizing the commission.

In response, Democratic Party interim leader Han Byung-do stated at the party's Supreme Council meeting that Jang is obsessed solely with conspiracy theories regarding election fraud. Han claimed that the PPP is using the issue as a political tool by demanding a special counsel investigation based solely on the opposition party's stance. He also criticized the PPP for displaying double standards by being passive toward constitutional amendments required to dissolve the NEC.