By Jun Ji-hye
Prime Minister Lee Wan-koo faces many challenges in his leadership due to the fact he was endorsed for the job despite unresolved allegations of moral laxity.
When he was floor leader of the ruling Saenuri Party, Lee was lauded for negotiating with the main opposition New Politics Alliance for Democracy (NPAD), especially when drawing up a special law on the Sewol ferry disaster.
Now, his strong suit may be gone, and he is likely to face NPAD hurdles that may slow his initiative to accomplish President Park Geun-hye’s core projects.
NPAD floor leader Woo Yoon-geun said, “The ruling party’s enforcement of the appointment motion was against the will of the people. The party will have to take full responsibility for any future controversy.”
Public opinion toward him is not warm due to unanswered questions over his alleged involvement in real estate speculation and evasion of military service as well as his alleged attempt to control media reports.
Awarding Lee an appointment certificate, Tuesday, President Park said, “I believe Lee will display his rich experience and leadership in resolving many pending issues.”
On the morning of his first day at the Prime Minister’s Office, Lee told reporters, “I will respect the people’s will and do my best to produce results.”
The first challenge will be an interpellation session scheduled for Feb. 25 through 27 dueing which NPAD lawmakers are expected to grill Lee with questions on political and economic issues.
“We will select lawmakers specializing in each area to ask acute questions,” said NPAD vice floor leader Rep. Ahn Gyu-baek. “The questions will be about measures to improve the economic condition of ordinary people, issues of welfare and taxes, and inter-Korean policies.”
During his confirmation hearings, Lee backed President Park’s positions against a constitutional amendment and the need to raise taxes.
“I oppose increasing corporate tax. I will seek to expand tax revenue without a tax raise,” Lee said.
These positions confront those of the NPAD, increasing the likelihood that opposition lawmakers will harshly attack Lee in the session.
Both NPAD Chairman Rep. Moon Jae-in and floor leader Woo are strongly calling for an amendment to the Constitution. They also want to raise the corporate tax rate, saying that the tax burden on salaried workers has increased.
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