President Lee and GNP Leader Agree to

Hear People’s Voices More Carefully and

Put Current Political Controversies to Rest

President Lee Myung-bak held an emergency meeting with Chairman Kang Jae-sup of the ruling Grand National Party this morning for an hour and half from 8 o’clock to 9:30.

Regarding the recent political developments and ways to settle the public controversies, Chairman Kang suggested, “You need to be more open to the opinions of elders from various sectors of society.” He went on to recommend, “From the party’s perspective, it is clear that political mistakes have been made. The Administration should seize this opportunity to take necessary measures, including a Cabinet reshuffle, to address the unfavorable public sentiment.”

He also recommended that a new apparatus be established at Cheong Wa Dae that would be responsible for predicting and analyzing the political situation as well as for smooth communications and coordination between the ruling and opposition parties as well as between the Government and the political community.

President Lee responded by saying, “I will outline measures to allay the public resentment after I sufficiently gather opinions from the party and listen to what elder members from across a wide social spectrum have to say.”

Saying that illegal and violent demonstrations should be strictly dealt with in accordance with principles, however, Chairman Kang underscored that a peaceful expression of public opinion through candlelight vigils should be handled flexibly.

Regarding the opening of the National Assembly, President Lee urged, “Both the ruling and opposition parties should not waste more time in wrapping up their negotiations to complete the personnel lineup of the 18th National Assembly in order to discuss various measures designed to stabilize the lives of ordinary citizens and pass pending bills related to such issues as the ratification of the Korea-US FTA and high oil prices.”

Asked about the issue of allowing all lawmakers supporting former GNP Chairwoman Park Geun-hye to return to the ruling party, Chairman Kang said the issue would be addressed based on several party principles.

“In principle, the GNP will open its door to those who want to join or return to the party for internal harmony. First of all, the former GNP lawmakers who were elected in the 18th general elections after breaking with the party because they failed to win the nomination will be immediately allowed to return to the party barring any reasons for disqualification stipulated by the party.”

The GNP Chairman also said that the party would review applications of other newly elected legislators who want to join the party. It will look into whether the applicants made moral or ethical breaches orhurt the reputation of the GNP seriously in the past. To this end, the majority party will form a screening committee during the week and act on the applications.

President Lee said, “That is a good idea. Concrete direction and procedures for the issue are up to the party.” Based on the on-going discussion within the party, the GNP Supreme Council will make a final decision on the issue and make a detailed announcement soon.