Park Byeong-seok "Need to Discuss Simultaneous 2022 Local and Presidential Elections... Waste of National Power"

On the 16th, Park Byeong-seok, who marked 100 days since his inauguration as Speaker of the National Assembly, held a virtual press conference at the National Assembly. Photo by Yoon Dong-joo doso7@2020.09.16

[Asia Economy Reporter Wondara] Park Byeong-seok, Speaker of the National Assembly, stated that the possibility of holding the 2022 local elections and presidential election simultaneously should be reviewed next year.

On the afternoon of the 16th, during a 100-day inauguration video press conference held at the National Assembly, Speaker Park said, "In the first half of the year after next, the presidential election and the nationwide local elections will be held three months apart," adding, "A considerable consumption of national resources is anticipated."

He continued, "A serious review is needed on whether to hold the local elections and presidential election simultaneously," and said, "There should be discussions on this issue next year."

He also emphasized that the National Assembly should focus on people's livelihood and the future before the elections.

He said, "From next year until the first half of the year after next, it will be the season of elections. Non-contentious bills related to COVID-19 and people's livelihood must all be processed within this regular session of the National Assembly," adding, "At least until the end of this year, we must prevent the 'time of elections' from encroaching on the 'time of the National Assembly.'"

Speaker Park stated, "After the regular session ends, the reform of the National Assembly must also accelerate," and urged, "I hope the ruling party will promptly complete the adjustment of the powers of the Legislation and Judiciary Committee as promised. Let's not miss the opportunity."

He added, "In the 21st National Assembly, we must lay the groundwork for the Sejong National Assembly building," and said, "The Secretariat of the National Assembly has also formed a dedicated team to prepare for the Sejong Assembly building, and I will fulfill my role as Speaker." He also said, "We will calmly prepare for inter-Korean parliamentary talks," and emphasized, "I ask the ruling and opposition parties to agree and adopt a resolution urging inter-Korean parliamentary talks."

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.