[Local Election D-120] Registration for Preliminary Candidates Begins... 'Martial Law Judgment' vs 'People's Livelihood Judgment' in Direct Conflict

On the 3rd, 120 days before the 9th nationwide simultaneous local elections, the election management committees of 17 cities and provinces across the country began the registration of preliminary candidates for the elections of metropolitan local government heads and education superintendents. This election, which is the first public sentiment evaluation of the Lee Jae-myung government launched after last year's early presidential election, is expected to be a major turning point that will determine the future political landscape amid the restructured political dynamics following the '12.3 Martial Law Incident'.

The Democratic Party aims to dominate this local election following victories in the 2024 general election and the 2025 presidential election, thereby completely seizing 'local power'. The party is particularly emphasising the 'Martial Law Judgment' regarding the '12.3 Martial Law Incident'. Their strategy is to maintain public sentiment for judgment until the election by leveraging the recently processed 'Second Comprehensive Special Investigation Act' led by the pro-government coalition.

At the same time, they plan to gain an advantage in traditional strongholds such as the Chungcheong and Yeongnam regions (TK·PK) through the 'local administrative integration' card being promoted by the government and ruling party. Secretary-General Cho Seung-rae appealed for support, stating, "To lead the large metropolitan entity that will emerge from administrative integration, a ruling party candidate who can communicate closely with the central government is essential." However, the controversy over the merger with the Justice Reform Party and factional conflicts ahead of the August party convention are seen as internal variables.

The People Power Party, which has changed its position to that of the opposition, is determined to use this election as a stepping stone for conservative reconstruction. They are countering the 'Martial Law Judgment' with the 'People's Livelihood Judgment' focusing on issues such as real estate, seeking to exploit gaps in the government. Secretary-General Jeong Hee-yong emphasised, "We will judge the failures of the Lee Jae-myung government and show a transformed image as an alternative party."

However, the situation within the party is not easy. Following the expulsion of former leader Han Dong-hoon, internal strife has reached a peak, and they are struggling to attract centrist voters due to the responsibility for the martial law incident. In particular, there are ongoing controversies regarding nominations, such as the 'cut-off theory' surrounding Seoul Mayor Oh Se-hoon, who has rebelled against the leadership of Representative Jang Dong-hyuk, leading to expected turmoil during the primary process.

From this day, those registered as preliminary candidates can conduct election campaigns within limited scopes, such as setting up campaign offices, distributing business cards, and wearing shoulder bands. The deposit for metropolitan local government heads is 10 million won, and education superintendent candidates must submit additional documents such as a non-party member confirmation.

A representative from the Central Election Management Commission stated, "As this is an important election that determines grassroots democracy, we will ensure fair and clean election management."