Seoul:<Text>
The main opposition People Power Party (PPP) held a national convention Friday to elect a new leader as it still struggles to rejuvenate its image in the aftermath of ousted President Yoon Suk Yeol's botched martial law bid. The convention is seen as a crucial step for the PPP to regain its footing ahead of next year's local elections.
According to Yonhap News Agency, the PPP's national convention occurs amid lingering internal strife following the failed declaration of martial law by Yoon. Yoon, who is currently facing criminal trials on insurrection charges, was a member of the conservative party until his departure in May, after the Constitutional Court upheld his impeachment in April. The election of a new leader is expected to play a pivotal role in shaping the party's future direction.
The leadership race includes four candidates: former presidential contender Kim Moon-soo, and Reps. Jang Dong-hyeok, Cho Kyoung-tae, and Ahn Cheol-soo. The c andidates' positions on Yoon's impeachment are anticipated to be a significant factor in the leadership contest. Kim and Jang, who both opposed Yoon's impeachment, are considered frontrunners. A recent survey of PPP supporters showed Jang leading with 33 percent, followed by Kim with 30 percent. Ahn and Cho, who supported Yoon's impeachment, trail with 8 and 7 percent, respectively.
If no candidate secures a majority in the election, the top two contenders will advance to a runoff. Should this occur, the finalists will engage in a final televised debate on Saturday, followed by runoff voting on Aug. 24-25. The new party leader will be confirmed on Tuesday.
In addition to electing a new leader, Friday's national convention will see four members elected to the party's Supreme Council, along with one member to the party's youth leadership. The outcome of the convention is expected to significantly impact whether pro-Yoon or non-Yoon figures dominate the party's leadership, pot entially influencing the PPP's political trajectory.
A recent opinion poll indicated that the PPP's approval rating has remained below 20 percent for seven consecutive weeks, highlighting the challenges facing the party as it seeks to rebuild its image and support base.