What Urges South Korea’s Acting President for Fair Elections?
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Synopsis
In his first Cabinet meeting, South Korean Acting President Lee Ju-ho emphasizes the urgency of fair elections as the country prepares for the upcoming presidential election. He calls for focused efforts on disaster response and economic revitalization while ensuring electoral transparency. The clock is ticking with only 33 days left until June 3.
Key Takeaways
- Acting President Lee Ju-ho emphasizes fair elections.
- The National Assembly passed a significant extra budget.
- Only 33 days remain until the presidential election.
- Election candidates must comply with strict registration deadlines.
- Historical parallels are drawn with past presidential removals.
Seoul, May 2 (NationPress) In his inaugural Cabinet meeting, South Korean Acting President Lee Ju-ho emphasized the importance of prioritizing state affairs as the nation approaches the June 3 presidential election.
Lee's remarks came during his first meeting after taking over as the interim leader following the resignation of former acting President Han Duck-soo and Deputy Prime Minister for Economic Affairs Choi Sang-mok on Thursday.
Highlighting the recent passage of the extra budget Bill by the National Assembly, Lee noted, "This supplementary budget was approved in just 11 days, marking the fastest process in the last 20 years."
"It is now time for the government to fulfill its responsibility," he asserted.
On Thursday, the National Assembly approved a 13.8 trillion-won (approximately $9.6 billion) extra budget designed to bolster disaster response and stimulate the economy.
With only 33 days remaining until the election, Lee urged the government to guarantee a transparent and fair electoral process while ensuring national security, as reported by Yonhap news agency.
He called for focused attention on urgent national tasks, such as comprehensive trade negotiations with the United States and economic revitalization, despite the limited timeframe.
According to the Constitution, a new election must be held within 60 days of a presidential vacancy.
The government has also declared June 3 as a temporary public holiday.
The National Election Commission began early candidate registration immediately after the Constitutional Court dismissed Yoon.
Candidates must register by May 11, with the official campaign period commencing on May 12.
The law stipulates that any public servant running for President must resign at least 30 days prior to the election, setting May 4 as the deadline.
The newly elected President will take office immediately following the election without a transition period.
In 2017, when former President Park Geun-hye was removed from office on March 10, the early election was held precisely 60 days later on May 9.
Meanwhile, Yoon, who ascended from a top prosecutor to the presidency within three years, became the second President in South Korean history to be formally removed from office, following a controversial martial law bid that heightened political tensions.
With this ruling, Yoon, 64, follows the path of former President Park Geun-hye, who was ousted in 2017 after the Constitutional Court upheld her impeachment linked to a corruption scandal.
Point of View
It is essential to recognize the significance of Acting President Lee Ju-ho's leadership during this transitional phase. His emphasis on fair elections and national responsibility reflects a commitment to democratic principles. The government's proactive approach towards economic revitalization and disaster response is commendable, ensuring that the nation remains resilient amidst political uncertainties.
NationPress
17/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the significance of the extra budget passed by the National Assembly?
The extra budget of 13.8 trillion-won is crucial for enhancing disaster response efforts and revitalizing the South Korean economy, marking a swift legislative process.
When is the deadline for candidates to register for the presidential election?
Candidates must register by May 11, with the official campaign period starting on May 12.
What happens if a public servant wants to run for President?
Public servants must resign at least 30 days before the election, which sets May 4 as the deadline for resignations.
How does the constitutional requirement affect the timing of the election?
The Constitution mandates that a new presidential election must occur within 60 days of a vacancy, which is why the election is set for June 3.
What historical context surrounds President Yoon's removal?
President Yoon is the second South Korean leader to be formally removed from office, following the impeachment of former President Park Geun-hye over corruption.
