[투나잇이슈] '대통령 연임' 언급한 조 의장…野 강력 반발 / 연합뉴스TV (YonhapnewsTV)

[Guests: Kim Jin-wook, Former Spokesperson for the Democratic Party; Song Young-hoon, Former Spokesperson for the People Power Party] The topic of constitutional amendment raised by National Assembly Speaker Cho Jung-sik has literally become a hot potato. He held his first press conference since taking office and announced that he would begin the process of constitutional amendment with the goal of next year; however, he sparked controversy by stating that the issue of presidential consecutive terms is a matter for the people to decide. Speaker Cho's side stepped in to resolve the situation, claiming it was a position based on principle. We will examine the related details with Kim Jin-wook, former spokesperson for the Democratic Party, and Song Young-hoon, former spokesperson for the People Power Party. [Question 1] The remarks made by National Assembly Speaker Cho Jung-sik at today's press conference caused a stir in the political sphere. He stated that the issue of a sitting president's consecutive terms is a matter for the people, the sovereigns, to decide. Former Speaker Woo Won-sik also mentioned constitutional amendments for consecutive terms, but drew a line, stating that it does not apply to the incumbent. His reasoning was that it is impossible under the principles of the constitutional order, but isn't it legally impossible? [Question 2] As the controversy spread, the Speaker's office clarified that a misunderstanding had arisen, contrary to the original intent. They hastily held a briefing and stated, "We are fully aware of Article 128, Paragraph 2 of the Constitution, which stipulates that constitutional amendments for extending the presidential term or changing the re-election system do not apply to the President at the time the amendment was proposed." It appears they are rushing to resolve the situation; what do you think is the background behind this? [Question 3] The opposition bloc, including the People Power Party, has launched a fierce attack. They are unanimously claiming that the Democratic Party has revealed its ulterior motives. Amidst the strong backlash from the opposition, the Democratic Party is also expressing bewilderment. How do you foresee Speaker Cho's recent remarks unfolding? [Question 4] The amendment to the Criminal Procedure Act, which centers on the abolition of the prosecution's supplementary investigation authority, has reached a critical juncture. The Democratic Party led the discussion at the Judiciary Committee subcommittee today (the 28th) with the goal of passing the bill this week, but the People Power Party walked out, claiming that the order of agenda items was changed without consultation. The extreme standoff between the ruling and opposition parties continues. What are your thoughts on this? [Question 4-1] The Democratic Party included "full case referral" in the amendment, which allows the prosecution to re-examine cases involving seven major crimes, such as child abuse and sexual offenses. However, Minister Jeong Seong-ho appealed for deliberation on whether to limit full case referral to only these seven crimes. Will this ensure sufficient relief for most crimes affecting people's livelihoods and the protection of the vulnerable? [Question 5] The People Power Party has stated that it will engage in unlimited debate if the Democratic Party pushes ahead with the bill. Independent lawmaker Han Dong-hoon has expressed his intention to join them. Although he is an outsider, he shares the same stance. Will the People Power Party leadership accept Rep. Han's offer to participate? [Question 6] The Democratic Party has begun its touring primary for the August 17 National Convention. Voting by delegates and party members with voting rights in the Chungcheong region will take place over two days starting today (the 28th). Candidate Jeong Cheong-rae be able to secure a decisive lead in his hometown of Chungcheong? What are your thoughts? [Question 7] There are many new measures being applied in this national convention. The preferential voting system, which applies when no candidate receives a majority of votes, is also drawing attention. What are the decisive factors or variables that might determine the sentiments of lower-ranking voters? [Question 8] The People Power Party has initiated disciplinary proceedings against Rep. Kwon Young-jin, who grabbed Floor Leader Jeong Jeom-sik by the collar. However, with Floor Leader Jeong expressing his intention to show leniency, opinions among incumbent lawmakers are divided. Rep. Cho Eun-hee appealed that he should be given a chance, while Rep. Yoo Young-ha countered that if authority collapses, the organization collapses. How do you foresee this internal strife over the disciplinary action unfolding? [Question 8-1] Internal conflict is intensifying as the People Power Party Ethics Committee begins its disciplinary process in earnest. Controversy surrounding the procedural legitimacy of this disciplinary ...