SEOUL, South Korea: South Korea’s ruling People Power Party (PPP) yesterday formally registered former labour minister, Kim Moon-soo, as its presidential candidate – just days after attempting to replace him.
Kim, 73, had won the party’s primary to contest the June 3 presidential election but was briefly dropped in a late-night move to install ex-prime minister, Han Duck-soo, who had resigned earlier to enter the race as an independent.
The party’s effort to switch candidates failed when its members voted down the motion, automatically reinstating Kim.
“I’ve completed my registration with deep gratitude,” Kim told reporters, vowing to overcome the country’s current crisis and “lead South Korea toward becoming an even greater nation”.
He added that he would soon meet Han, praising his “remarkable capabilities”.
In a separate press conference, Han announced his retirement from politics.
“I accept everything with humility and return to life as an ordinary citizen,” he said.
The PPP has faced internal turmoil since former president, Yoon Suk Yeol, was ousted for declaring martial law in December.
Analysts warn the conservative bloc must unite behind Kim to avoid a major loss, with Democratic Party leader, Lee Jae-myung, holding a strong lead.
A National Barometer Survey released this week showed Lee ahead with 43 per cent support, compared to Kim’s 29 per cent. – AFP
