Gov`t, Ruling Party Agree on Major Personnel Revamp

President Lee Myung-bak yesterday urged the ruling Grand National Party to distance itself from factional politics, saying now is the time to overcome factional division.

He made this comment after being briefed by party chairman Park Hee-tae on a plan to revamp the party in the wake of last week`s crushing by-election defeat. The president also agreed with Park’s proposal to unify the party by implementing balanced personnel management that goes beyond factions.

Park suggested Kim Moo-sung from a group backing former party leader Park Geun-hye as floor leader, but President Lee reportedly left the decision up to Park Hee-tae.

After attending a breakfast with other party figures, President Lee and Park Hee-tae held talks for 50 minutes.

In the wake of their agreement, the party reform drive led by the chairman is expected to gain momentum, and Kim is likely to be the next floor leader.

“The ruling party should learn a lesson from the by-election defeat. We should humbly accept the by-election results,” President Lee said. “Party members should rally around Park (Hee-tae) in revamping and uniting the party.”

The president also agreed with Chairman Park`s proposal for a new official playing the role of a minister for political affairs to facilitate communication between the presidential office and the party.

“It’s a good idea. I heard that a party revamp committee will be established. I hope the committee will come up with a more detailed plan for the idea,” President Lee said.

“A man of wisdom turns misfortune into a blessing. Now is the time to prioritize a party revamp and unity. The party has made a timely suggestion.”

Incumbent party floor leader Hong Joon-pyo said both the presidential office and the party should revamp themselves.

To this, an official at the presidential office said, “Hong can express his personal opinion, but no reshuffle at the presidential office or Cabinet is expected for the time being.”

mhpark@donga.com