Lee Jung-hyun, chairman of the People Power Party’s (PPP) nomination management committee, has submitted his resignation for the second time. This follows his initial declaration on March 13 amid disputes over nomination authority.
Resignation Tied to Candidacy Plans
A senior PPP official confirmed that Lee conveyed his resignation directly to party leadership. The move appears linked to his potential run for the Jeonnam-Gwangju special mayoral election. “This seems connected to the chairman’s interest in the Jeonnam-Gwangju special market candidacy,” the official stated.
Initial Conflict and Party Response
On March 13, Lee voiced frustration from his nomination role, noting difficulties in driving further changes and gaining consensus. The party representative met with him the next day but issued directives without room for discussion, leaving Lee dissatisfied.
Lee remarked that the representative aimed to assume full control of nominations and highlighted substantial friction over outcomes. Regional complaints soon emerged from areas including Seoul, Daegu, and Chungbuk, prompting Lee to reaffirm his decision to step down.
Party Leadership Stands Firm
Party executives have opted against reappointing Lee. A top party figure emphasized, “If the chairman truly seeks to run, returning to the public nomination committee—even if pointless—remains an option, but public nominations must proceed afresh regardless.”
This development underscores ongoing tensions within the PPP as it navigates internal nomination challenges ahead of key elections.
