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Lee’s transition team has exceeded its authority, the president argues
January 29, 2008
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“The transition team is exceeding its authority and ordering [my] public servants to evaluate the policies of my administration and then demand that they come up with revisions that suit the taste of the new administration,” Roh said. “The transition team has turned the incumbent president into a vegetable. I ask them to do only what they are allowed to do legally.” This is the second time Roh has said he is willing to veto the reforms if they are passed by the National Assembly before his term ends. It puts the incoming administration in a dilemma because it may have to wait until after the April legislative elections for an Assembly that is expected to be dominated by conservatives. Liberal parties still hold a decisive edge in the Assembly and it is unlikely a presidential veto could be over- ridden. The bill, which calls for the closure of five ministries ― gender equality, science, information, marine affairs and unification ― is one of 45 bills submitted by the transition team working for President-elect Lee Myung-bak. The gender equality and science ministries were expanded by Roh during his term, and their dismantling is a particular slap in the face for him. The Unification Ministry’s downgrade has also been denounced by Roh’s government. “Did they [transition team] try to understand why these ministries came into being in the first place?” Roh asked. “What is the philosophy that says the administration will run more effectively if they are downsized and merged into a bigger bloc? “They are shaking the philosophical basis of the Roh administration to its roots.” Roh also expressed anger toward the media and some lawmakers, alleging they are biased toward Lee. “Do the media here have the answers to the questions I ask? Do the lawmakers all agree with the transition team without even holding a debate on this matter?” he continued. “I read from news editorials that I am an outgoing president and should cooperate, but I would not be talking in front of you if there was a proper procedure to study this matter.” Roh said he is concerned about the aftershocks that abrupt change will bring and he still has a job to do. “Where else in the world demands that a president sign what a president-elect made up in two weeks to tear apart the work done over five years?” Roh said Lee can wait until he takes office to make changes. By Lee Min-a Staff Reporter [mina@joongang.co.kr] |
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