GNP Primary to Take Place on Aug. 19

The Grand National Party’s presidential primary will be held on August 19 as the conservative party wraps up all official primary campaigns on August 17 with the last joint rally in Seoul.

The GNP primary election, which officially launched on July 21, has a special meaning in that throughout the party’s history, its presidential frontrunners, former Mayor Lee Myung-bak and his main rival Park Geun-hye, have the highest supporting ratings among other candidates including those from the pro-ruling and opposition parties alike. The two rivals have engaged in fierce competition for the party’s nomination.

Although the “Big Two” frontrunner camps have been criticized for engaging in negative campaigns in the last stage, they deserve credit for their successful completion of the primary race despite numerous unfounded rumors surrounding their candidacy.

In this process, former Gyeonggi Governor Sohn Hak-gyu became dissatisfied with the party’s primary rules and declared his defection from the party in March. The GNP, however, is acclaimed for providing a foundation for the party nomination with a series of hearings and policy debates. The party has held its first-ever verification hearing for the candidates, four policy debating tours and 13 joint speech session nationwide.

With the final official campaign on August 18, the right-wing party will finalize all primary campaign activities and on Sunday will conduct a vote and a public opinion poll of the 231,652-member Electoral College. The result of the primary election will be released next day during the GNP convention at Jamsil stadium in Seoul, according to party officials.

The former Seoul mayor appealed to the hearts and minds at the last joint rally held in Seoul on Friday by saying, “Despite all the humiliation, unfounded rumors and conspiracy, I have received the highest supporting ratings. That couldn’t be possible without your support.” Frontrunner candidate Lee Myung-bak called on voters to give him overwhelming support in the primaries.

Lee accused the current administration, coupled with the National Intelligence Agency, the National Tax Service, and even the prosecution of political maneuvering to prevent opposition from returning to power. “The government has created ill-founded allegations, including the ownership of land in Dogok-dong and stock ownership involving BBK. They are all lies. I didn’t live that way.” He further asked for grand conciliation, adding, “I endured all the agony because I believe we can overcome all the sufferings and unite to return to power. I will embrace all people regardless of their political lines.”

Meanwhile, Park Geun-hye, former party leader, said, “Do you want reform or relapse? Make a wise choice between degeneration to corruption and a bright future with Park Geun-hye. Support me instead of choosing the venerable candidate. I am determined to bring victory in the presidential race. Please give me a chance to open a new phase in the primary nomination.” She stressed, “I am resolved to commit all my strength for the nation.”

taylor55@donga.com