Controversy over constitutional amendment expands within the ruling party over Cho Jung-sik's remarks

National Assembly Speaker Cho Jungsik’s remarks surrounding a constitutional amendment to allow consecutive terms for the incumbent president sparked controversy within and outside the Democratic Party of Korea on the 29th. After making a statement to the effect that it was “a matter of the people’s choice,” Speaker Cho clarified via Facebook that allowing an incumbent president to serve consecutive terms was not part of this constitutional amendment discussion, but criticism continued. The Democratic Party leadership moved to quell the controversy, describing the remarks as a general, principlebased statement. However, some lawmakers within the party pointed out that the comments were inappropriate wording that could place a burden on the president. In particular, as interpretations resurfaced around the possibility of a constitutional amendment to extend President Lee Jaemyung’s term, observers said confusion within the party had grown. This controversy is also expected to affect the overall constitutional amendment discussion. Some within the ruling party believe that even constitutional amendment tasks such as reform of the National Election Commission and including the spirit of the May 18 Democratic Uprising could become political issues, weakening momentum for 추진. Since passage of a constitutional amendment requires the approval of twothirds of the total members of the National Assembly, analysts say agreement with the opposition has become even more difficult.