Kim Bo-ra, the Democratic Party candidate for Anseong mayor, has issued a public inquiry to People Power Party candidates for the same post, including Kim Jang-yeon, regarding the declaration of martial law on December 3, 2024. The move aims to inform citizens ahead of the local election about how candidates for public office perceive and respond to national emergency measures.
In the inquiry released Wednesday, Kim's camp said, "Because emergency measures such as martial law have a significant impact on citizens' basic rights, candidates need to clearly express their positions." The camp added that candidates "must provide an accurate expression of their views to the citizens of Anseong."
The inquiry asks People Power Party candidates about their understanding of the constitutional requirements and limits of a martial law declaration, their assessment of the December 3, 2024 declaration, their principles regarding the impact of emergency measures on citizens' basic rights, local government response measures in the event of similar situations, and the official positions of their party and regional organizations.
"Martial law is a national emergency measure that must be exercised strictly and in a limited manner in accordance with the Constitution and the law," Kim's camp said. "As candidates for public office, stating a responsible position on related matters is necessary for voters' right to know."
"This inquiry is not intended to criticize a specific party or individual, but to confirm candidates' awareness of matters directly related to citizens' basic rights," the camp added. "We expect sincere and specific answers by the 14th, before candidate registration."
