The People Power Party freshman and sophomore lawmakers' group "Alternative and Future" met with leader Jang Dong-hyeok to discuss the expulsion of former leader Han Dong-hoon. They said it is a misunderstanding that Jang is steering the party's Central Ethics Committee, and they predicted Jang does not seem to think "we must expel former leader Han."
People Power Party lawmakers Lee Seong-kwon, Eom Tae-young, and Ko Dong-jin of Alternative and Future met Jang at the National Assembly on the morning of the 15th and told reporters, "There is a misunderstanding that the party leader coordinates the Ethics Committee, but after talking today (the 15th), that is absolutely not the case."
They added, "People who know politics, and those who currently hold a National Assembly seat, know how severe a punishment expulsion is," and "we sensed from Jang's own words that he did not have the thought that former leader Han should be expelled."
Rep. Lee Seong-kwon said, "At today's (the 15th) Supreme Council meeting, I suggested that it should not simply approve the Ethics Committee's disciplinary measure as is, and that the highest-level punishment of expulsion is not desirable," adding, "Jang said he would discuss it at the Supreme Council."
Rep. Eom Tae-young said, "Public interest is high, so I suggested using this as an opportunity for a reversal that meets the public's expectations," adding, "As leader, he should respect the Ethics Committee's decision, but he also said they would take time for further discussions going forward, so we will wait for the various procedures and details."
Rep. Ko Dong-jin said, "The local elections are not far off, and isn't it what party members and the public who love the People Power Party want—to embrace one another, be patient, and protect each other," adding, "Jang is aware of that part as well, and I hope he will either delay a decision at the Supreme Council or proceed after hearing opinions at a general meeting of lawmakers."