[Reporter’s Notebook] Even a Hardline Ruling Party Leader Needs Inclusiveness

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Just two weeks after the launch of the Democratic Party under Representative Jung Cheongrae, the political atmosphere in Yeouido has shifted dramatically. This change is closely linked to the emergence of a hardline ruling party leader who is calling for the dissolution of the main opposition party. Jung has continued his aggressive drive, promising to push forward with three major reforms?prosecution, judiciary, and media?before the Chuseok holiday.

During the Democratic Party leadership election, party members overwhelmingly supported Representative Jung, giving him twice as many votes as his main rival. Park Chandae, the other leading candidate, is known for his moderate image, but the members were clearly drawn to Jung’s more hardline stance. Jung, who previously served as chairman of the National Assembly’s Legislation and Judiciary Committee and as an impeachment prosecutor, successfully appealed to members seeking strong reforms.

However, Representative Jung must consider that the Democratic Party has now shifted from being the main opposition to the ruling party. While he may feel compelled to meet the demands of members who want robust reforms, as party leader, he must look beyond party members and consider the broader public. It is worth noting that, during his courtesy visits to other parties after taking office, he excluded the People Power Party from his itinerary.

The character 'Ye' (與) in the ruling party's name signifies that it is a party meant to govern the country together with the government. President Lee Jaemyung’s efforts to communicate with the People Power Party since his inauguration also reflect the importance of national unity.

Senior members of the Democratic Party did not hold back their candid advice during a meeting with Representative Jung on the 12th. “Our nation is not made up solely of party members, so the ruling party cannot govern with only its members in mind.” The advice from former Democratic Party leader Chung Sye-kyun, who served as both National Assembly Speaker and Prime Minister, is especially worth reflecting on. Unlike the party leadership election, where party sentiment is decisive, next year’s 9th nationwide local elections on June 3 will be determined by the will of the general public?a fact that must not be forgotten.

In order to address the shockwaves caused by the 12·3 Martial Law, it is just as important to take a breather through dialogue and compromise?the essence of politics?as it is to respond forcefully. It is also worth considering that, while some may hope to see the so-called three major reform bills on the Chuseok dinner table, there may be even more people who simply wish for a plentiful holiday meal.

Representative Jung is also aware of the importance of inclusiveness. This was evident in his acceptance speech as party leader: “Whether you voted for Park Chandae or Jung Cheongrae, we are all Democratic Party members, and we are one.” In fact, Jung responded with a balanced approach in his appointments. Even party officials who had voiced concerns expressed praise and surprise at his choices, attributing it to the inclusiveness Jung has demonstrated.

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