Three non-mainstream lawmakers from the main opposition Democratic Party (DP) announced their departure from the party Wednesday, saying the party would not be able to win in the upcoming general elections under the leadership of Lee Jae-myung.

Reps. Cho Eung-cheon, Kim Jong-min and Lee Won-wook, who constitute a four-member group not aligned with Chairman Lee, made the announcement less than three months before the parliamentary election scheduled for April 10. The fourth member, Rep. Yoon Young-chan, however, chose to remain with the DP.

“We must judge and hold the Yoon Suk Yeol administration accountable for its self-righteousness, incompetence and irresponsibility. However, under the current Lee Jae-myung regime, we will not be able to pass judgment on the Yoon administration,” Rep. Kim said in a press conference held at the National Assembly.

The group has presented reform demands to Lee, urging him to step down as party leader and requesting that the DP distance itself from hardcore Lee supporters.

K
im also highlighted that Lee has disregarded advice from three former prime ministers, including Lee Nak-yon, who is also a former DP leader, regarding the reform of election rules.

The departing lawmakers hinted at the possibility of collaborating with emerging political parties, such as the one envisioned by Lee Nak-yon, or with Lee Jun-seok, a former leader of the ruling People Power Party who also departed his party.

Lee Nak-yon is expected to announce his departure from the DP on Thursday.

“We are ready to collaborate and unite with all forces if they are prepared to relinquish their vested interests,” Rep. Cho said.

Source: Yonhap News Agency