Ruling Party Wants Changes In Presidential Voting System

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Ruling Party Wants Changes In Presidential Voting System

Top members of the ruling Millennium Democratic Party called again Tuesday for revision of the Constitution to a two-term American-style presidency and vice presidency system.

Following on the heels of statements made by Rep. Rhee In-je of the ruling party, Rep. Kim Joong-kwon also said that the current Constitution should be amended.

"During the past three administrations, the one-term limit on the presidency has deepened regionalism and divided public opinion," Mr. Kim said Tuesday.

Political experts said that demands from the ruling party to allow the selection of a vice presidential candidate stem from political calculation that it would be the most effective way for the party to win votes from the Kyongsang region in the presidential election slated for December 2002.

Begun by Mr. Rhee, the strongest-yet contender in the next presidential election, the calls for revision are expected to develop into a full-fledged agenda for debate within the political arena, political analysts said.

A ruling party official said that calls for amending the constitution should gain momentum in the near future.

The main opposition Grand National Party has not balked at the ruling camp's demands. Political analysts said that the two parties know that a revision could be critical in deciding which contender wins the next election.

Opposition leader Lee Hoi-chang said in April that his party was willing to review a Constitutional amendment to allow for a two-term presidency.

by Lee Sang-il

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