PPP points finger at Lee Jae Myung government over ballot shortage

Cheong Wa Dae says it is 'closely monitoring' the situation

The People Power Party announced Wednesday night on its website that it was operating the "Lee Jae Myung Government Election Commission Voting Interference Tip Center." [People Power Party website]
The People Power Party announced Wednesday night on its website that it was operating the "Lee Jae Myung Government Election Commission Voting Interference Tip Center." [People Power Party website]

The People Power Party, furious over an unprecedented ballot shortage that struck parts of Seoul during Wednesday's local elections, directed its anger at the Lee Jae Myung government.

The PPP announced Wednesday night on its website that it was operating the "Lee Jae Myung Government Election Commission Voting Interference Tip Center."

"We are waiting to hear from anyone who was unable to vote because they did not receive a ballot during the 9th nationwide simultaneous local elections and the June 3 National Assembly by-elections, or who witnessed the election commission interfering with or obstructing the election," the party said.

"The voices of citizens who witnessed these scenes are the force that will restore the foundations of Korean democracy," it added, urging the public to submit tips.

As voting proceeded Wednesday in the local elections and National Assembly by-elections, ballot shortages were reported at 12 polling stations in the Jamsil area of Songpa-gu, one station in Gangnam-gu and one in Gwangjin-gu.

The PPP demanded the resignation of National Election Commission Chairman Noh Tae-ak and called for a re-election, mounting a fierce challenge over the incident.

Cheong Wa Dae said it was closely monitoring the situation.

Cheong Wa Dae chief spokesperson Kang Yu-jung said, "As a constitutional body responsible for guaranteeing citizens' right to political participation, we hope the National Election Commission takes responsible measures to ensure there are no disruptions in the exercise of voting rights and the management of vote counting in the affected areas." She added, "Cheong Wa Dae is closely monitoring the series of developments."


shindw@heraldcorp.com