|
June 07, 2008
|
|
| Several dozen lawmakers want to amend the nation’s constitution, changing the current single five-year presidential term to four years, with the possibility of re-election. Led by governing Grand National Party lawmaker Lee Ju-young, some 60 lawmakers are studying the issue. Lee said the group plans a nationwide tour to discuss the proposed amendment that lawmakers hope to turn to the National Assembly early next year. Among the lawmakers who are helping the effort are Lee Nak-yon of the United Democratic Party and Ahn Hong-joon of the GNP. Lee said the group will meet next Wednesday to launch the project. “Since the Constitution was revised in 1987, there have been many changes in Korean society,” Lee said. “We need a constitutional amendment to adjust to those changes.” The president’s single five-year term in office was adopted as a device to end authoritarian rule that had controlled the nation for decades. But many experts have said the presidential term has outgrown its usefulness and that the country is ready to adopt a four-year presidential term that a candidate could win twice. Former president Roh Moo-hyun first suggested the idea in March 2007. But debate quieted down as national interest turned to the presidential election later in the year. If such an amendment is passed, it would not apply to President Lee Myung-bak. To pass, two thirds of National Assembly lawmakers would have to agree to the amendment. By Lee Min-a Staff Reporter [mina@joongang.co.kr] |
|
