Kim Jaewon Criticizes 'Elected Public Office Qualification Exam'... Lee Junseok Says "Will Reflect Concerns"

Lee Jun-seok, leader of the People Power Party, is speaking at the Supreme Council meeting held at the National Assembly on the morning of the 17th. (Photo by Yonhap News)

[Asia Economy Reporter Kum Bo-ryeong] Kim Jae-won, a Supreme Council member of the People Power Party, publicly criticized one of party leader Lee Jun-seok's pledges, the 'Qualification Examination System for Elected Officials,' saying it does not align with the principles of democracy. In response, Lee showed a step back, stating he would "reflect on the concerns."

On the 17th, Kim appeared on a radio program and said, "Being elected means a system where the people choose without relying on an examination system," adding, "Introducing an examination system here contradicts the fundamental principle of popular sovereignty." Kim also mentioned, "I have seen many truly excellent elected officials who are uneducated or have never even been near a computer." Previously, Lee had announced plans to apply the qualification exam during the nomination process for the local elections in June next year. The purpose is to verify basic skills such as data interpretation, expression, computer utilization, and reading comprehension.

At a meeting with reporters after the Supreme Council meeting that day, Lee said, "I think we are at the stage where concerns are being expressed before the (qualification exam) proposal is finalized, and we will reflect these concerns to finalize the proposal." Lee, who has raised the banners of meritocracy, ability, and fairness, is also trying to significantly change existing personnel principles, such as selecting spokespersons through a 'debate battle.'

Lee has begun stabilizing the party by completing key appointments such as the Secretary-General and the Chair of the Policy Committee. At the Supreme Council meeting held that morning, the appointment of Assemblyman Han Ki-ho as Secretary-General was approved. Subsequently, at an emergency party members' meeting, the appointment procedure for Assemblyman Kim Do-eup as Chair of the Policy Committee was also completed.

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