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People Power Party Faces 'Fixed Nomination' Controversy Amid Local Elections
Daegu Mayoral Nomination Sparks 'Fixed Nomination' Controversy
Ahead of the local elections, the People Power Party's nomination process for the Daegu mayoral position is facing a 'fixed nomination' controversy, intensifying internal party conflicts. Allegations have been raised that Lee Jeong-hyun, the Nomination Management Committee Chairman, favored a specific preliminary candidate. Joo Ho-young, a People Power Party lawmaker, further fueled the debate with remarks questioning the understanding of Daegu by a candidate from Honam and mentioning a recommendation for Lee Jin-sook by Go Seong-guk. Although Chairman Lee emphasized 'generational change, not exclusion,' his specific mention of 'new individuals with experience in starting businesses' as a condition for candidates was seen as favoring Choi Eun-seok, a business executive.
Chungbuk Governor Nomination Also Plagued by 'Fixed Nomination' Claims
Prior to the Daegu mayoral controversy, the People Power Party's nomination for Chungbuk governor also suffered from 'fixed nomination' allegations. Kim Young-hwan, the current governor, exposed that Chairman Lee Jeong-hyun directly encouraged former lawmaker Kim Soo-min to submit additional nomination documents. This raised suspicions that the Nomination Management Committee Chairman was supporting a specific candidate, drawing criticism within the party. Despite the People Power Party leadership and Chairman Lee eventually deciding on an all-out primary, they failed to persuade Cho Kil-hyung, the former mayor of Chungju, who had resigned in protest against the fixed nomination allegations.
Leadership Communication Failure and Election Defeat Concerns
Jang Dong-hyuk, the People Power Party leader, called for a primary, emphasizing 'consideration of regional sentiment and various circumstances' and 'reflecting party members' and public opinion.' However, Chairman Lee Jeong-hyun stated he was unaware of the leader's primary order, revealing a lack of communication with the leadership. This inconsistent behavior, coupled with the Jang Dong-hyuk administration's low approval ratings, raises concerns about a potential devastating defeat in the local elections. With rumors of former Prime Minister Kim Boo-kyum running in Daegu, it remains to be seen whether the People Power Party can successfully shift its strategy to avoid election defeat.
*Source: YouTube: YTN (2026-03-20)*
