[뉴스포커스] 與 ‘신천지 개입설’ 공방…정성호 '사의' 후폭풍 / 연합뉴스TV (YonhapnewsTV)

[Guests: Political Commentator Seo Yang-ho · Former People Power Party Lawmaker Lee Yong-ho] With the Democratic Party’s national convention just over 20 days away, the dispute over Shincheonji among the contenders for the party leadership continues. The fallout from Minister Jung Sung-ho’s belatedly announced resignation is also continuing. We will examine political issues, including these topics, with political commentator Seo Yang-ho and former People Power Party lawmaker Lee Yong-ho. [Question 1] The controversy surrounding Shincheonji’s involvement stemming from the Democratic Party’s national convention appears to be spreading. Candidate Kim Min-seok is refusing to back down despite pressure from the pro-Cheong faction to resign, stating that this is “an issue that must be addressed,” just as he did when “martial law was first warned of.” Meanwhile, Candidate Jung Cheong-rae has officially demanded a thorough party-level investigation into the truth and severe disciplinary action against those involved, calling it “an act that has endangered the party.” The dispute is escalating into a proxy war between the pro-Myong faction and the pro-Cheong faction candidates. How do you view this situation? *Guests:* [Question 2] With the Democratic Party's primary tour underway, the three contenders for the party leadership are stepping up their efforts to win over public sentiment. Summarizing the candidates' arguments, they can be categorized around the anti-Myeong frame, allegations regarding Shincheonji, and the conflict between the party and the Blue House. How did you perceive the remarks made by these three candidates? How do you view the current political landscape? [Question 3] It has been reported that Justice Minister Jeong Seong-ho tendered his resignation on the very day the Democratic Party adopted the supplementary investigation authority as its official party stance, sparking controversy. Interpretations suggest that his resignation signifies his intention to take responsibility as Minister. Just moments ago, as Minister Jeong appeared before the Judiciary Committee, he remained tight-lipped, stating, "It is inappropriate to discuss such matters while the President is on an overseas trip for the sake of national interest." First, how do you interpret the background of his resignation? [Question 3-1] Although his resignation was rejected for now, there are predictions that Minister Jeong will resubmit his resignation if the supplementary investigation authority passes the plenary session on the 30th. What are your predictions? Will this lead to the President accepting the resignation? [Question 3-2] Along with this, it is reported that Acting Prosecutor General Koo Ja-hyun is also contemplating his future. If both of their resignations are accepted as is, there are concerns about a simultaneous leadership vacuum in both the Ministry of Justice and the Prosecution Service. [Question 4] The two top leaders of the People Power Party have launched criticism regarding the abolition of the "supplementary investigation authority," using Minister Jeong's expression of resignation as a pretext. Party Leader Jang Dong-hyuk sharpened his stance, calling it "the last conscience of one who witnessed the crime scene" and warning that it "will inevitably lead to the dissolution of the regime." Floor Leader Jeong Jeom-sik stated, "It is a defeat for the government and [the ruling party] You directly criticized it as a "landslide victory for the hardliners" and a "signal of a lame duck." How did you perceive this? [Question 5] Despite Rep. Kwon Young-jin's apology, the controversy surrounding the "collar-grabbing incident" within the People Power Party has not subsided. Rep. Kwon sparked controversy by grabbing the collars of former and current floor leaders while protesting his assignment to a standing committee. As you have seen, the floor leadership's stance is firm. They stated they "cannot find a reason to shield him" and urged strong measures to prevent a recurrence. Furthermore, they have insisted that he "decide his own future." How do you view this situation? The People Power Party is scheduled to discuss the matter at today's Supreme Council meeting. If the Ethics Committee convenes, it appears likely that discussions regarding disciplinary action will take place. [Question 6] With the Rep. Kwon Young-jin incident erupting, there is interest in whether the People Power Party Ethics Committee will function normally, but it does not look easy. Only half of the six members attended the two previous plenary sessions, and today It has been reported that one additional member has resigned ahead of the plenary session. Internal criticism continues regarding Ethics Committee Chairman Yoon Min-woo’s announcement of an individual’s “disciplinary standards” as if they represented the committee’s official stance. The Ethics Committee meeting is scheduled for this afternoon; will it proceed without any...