Democratic Party Pushes Legislative Speed, Han Byeong-do Says "Administrative Integration Special Law Must Be Processed First"
The Democratic Party of Korea is accelerating its legislative agenda with a focus on prioritizing the Administrative Integration Special Law amidst opposition from rival parties.
The Democratic Party of Korea has declared its intention to speed up legislative procedures, particularly focusing on the Administrative Integration Special Law. On January 18, Han Byeong-do, the floor leader of the Democratic Party, held a press conference where he reiterated the party's commitment to handling several key legal reforms. These include three special laws to facilitate administrative integration in specific regions, the prosecution reform law, and a significant amendment to the Commercial Act. The urgency of these legislative efforts indicates a response to President Lee Jae-myung's previous remarks about the slow pace of the National Assembly's work.
Han outlined the party's strategy to convene parliamentary sessions weekly starting on the 24th of January until April for the approval of these legislative initiatives. He emphasized the importance of expediting the legislative process to ensure that the necessary laws are in place to support the upcoming administrative reforms. The Democratic Party's call for an 'emergency legislative system' within relevant committees signals a strong determination to tackle these priorities efficiently. Han’s comments reflect an intention to not only push forward with legislative efforts but also to provide tangible benefits to the public by the time the cherry blossoms bloom in Yeouido, a metaphorical marker for success.
Furthermore, the emphasis on the Administrative Integration Special Law as a priority highlights ongoing regional tensions regarding the integration of administrative districts. Han has challenged rival parties on their inconsistent stances about regional integration, questioning their opposition based on selected areas. The urgency communicated by the government to finalize relevant laws before official integration procedures begin indicates a crucial moment for Korean politics as the Democratic Party seeks to assert its legislative influence and fulfill electoral promises amid a politically charged atmosphere.