Kim Ji-soo joined The Korea Times in 2006, and worked on such desks as culture and politics and is currently a member of the Editorial Board. Previous workplaces include The Korea Herald and the Korea JoongAng Daily.
Ahn Cheol-soo quits NPAD
By Kim Ji-soo
Ahn Cheol-soo, former co-chairman of the main opposition New Politics Alliance for Democracy (NPAD) said Sunday that he is leaving the party.
“I requested for a bold decision to be taken, but there is a strong will (within the party) to retain the status quo,” said Ahn at a press conference he called at the National Assembly in Yeouido. “Therefore, I have chosen to take a difficult road. I will be the founder of a political force that can change the leadership in government.” He did not elaborate further on how or when this will be pursued.
Ahn’s departure follows an 11th-hour attempt between him and Moon Jae-in, NPAD chairman, to mend their differences before preparations begin for the April 13 general election next year. In an attempt to stop Ahn from leaving, Moon visited his house late on Saturday, but the two only met briefly.
Ahn had requested a national convention be held to revamp the party leadership in order to alleviate deepening factional strife, but Moon rejected this proposal, claiming that it would only cause further division within the party. Moon reiterated that Ahn should consider forming a joint leadership, which Ahn rejected.