By Kwon Mee-yoo
Seoul Mayor Oh Se-hoon requested the Seoul Metropolitan Council, Monday, to reconsider the revised bill on the use of Seoul Plaza that allows assemblies without having to receive prior approval.
“Though I respect the city council, I also worry about side effects of the revision and proper use of downtown plazas,” Oh said at a press conference.
He suggested reflecting citizens’ opinions through a public hearing, debate and opinion polls.
Seoul City said the revised bill violates the authority of the mayor, as the city council chairman had recommended all outside members of a citizen committee reviewing use of the plaza.
“The revised bill hands over the administrative power to the metropolitan council, which breaks down the checks and balances,” a city official said.
However, the council immediately opposed Oh’s request, claiming it as “anti-democratic.”
Councilor Park Jin-hyung of the main opposition Democratic Party who proposed the bill held a press conference Monday afternoon and said, “Seoul City does not understand the principle of democracy at all. Mayor Oh should withdraw his demand that the bill should be reviewed.”
The metropolitan council passed a revised bill on Aug. 13 allowing political assemblies, and Oh asked for a review of the matter.
The head of local government can request reconsideration of a bill within 20 days when the council’s decision is considered an overreach of power or violates the public interest.
The revision, sent back to the council, requires two-thirds consent from the 106-member council in the re-vote to become official. It is highly likely to pass again, as the main opposition Democratic Party controls an absolute majority.
The city government said it will file an administrative litigation if the revision is re-endorsed.