S. Korea Politician Resigns Positions

The leader of the party backing impeached President Roh Moo Hyun stepped down as its campaign manager Monday and said he would not accept a seat in the next National Assembly, after he hurt his party’s chances in this week’s parliamentary election with a gaffe insulting the elderly.

“I resign as the head of the election campaign committee and the proportional representative candidate,” Uri Party Chairman Chung Dong Young said.

Support for the small, liberal Uri Party surged after the two main opposition parties impeached Roh on March 12. But it faded after Chung told older voters two weeks ago to “stay home and rest” and let younger voters decide the election. The remark angered elderly voters in a culture where one’s seniors are accorded special respect.

On Sunday, Chung admitted that his remarks had undermined the Uri Party’s campaign.

“Everything has gone back to square one,” he said, though on Monday he did not mention the gaffe and did not give up his position as party head.

Thursday’s vote is crucial for Roh, who has vowed to step down if the Uri Party fairs poorly. Roh is not a member of the party but has said he plans to join.

His presidency is in limbo while the Constitutional Court considers whether to unseat him or throw out his impeachment and restore his powers.