DPK pressures acting president with impeachment over delay in special counsel bills

Democratic Party of Korea leader Lee Jae-myung (center) speaks during the Supreme Council meeting at the National Assembly in Yeouido, Seoul on Dec. 20, 2024. /News1

Democratic Party of Korea leader Lee Jae-myung on Dec. 20 urged Acting President Han Duck-soo to promulgate two special counsel bills regarding President Yoon Suk-yeol’s martial law declaration and the scandals surrounding first lady Kim Keon-hee, which were passed by the National Assembly on Dec. 12. Lee called on Han to enact the bills quickly and launch the special prosecutor investigations without seeking reconsideration.

Lee criticized the delay in nominating candidates for the permanent special counsel investigation. “It’s shocking that six days have passed without a request for nominations,” Lee said at a party meeting. “While there may be time to exercise a veto, surely there’s enough time to stamp a recommendation.” Lee continued, “There are rumors that even if the National Assembly recommends a constitutional court judge, Han is considering not appointing them. I want to believe this is not true.” He added, “If that happens, it wouldn’t be supporting treason but committing treason itself.”

DPK spokesperson Noh Jong-myeon also told reporters that the ruling party has raised a controversy over whether Acting President Han has the authority to appoint a constitutional court judge, and that Han himself has hinted at exercising a veto, saying he will “consider the special prosecutor law.” He added, “During the party meeting, we confirmed that the DPK will not wait until Dec. 31. We are now ready for preemptive impeachment.” He warned that if Han exercises a veto on the special prosecutor law, which he must decide on by Jan. 1, or if he takes a passive stance on appointing a constitutional court judge, impeachment proceedings could be initiated.

A senior official from the Prime Minister’s office told reporters, “There are various opinions on recommending candidates for the permanent special prosecutor, and it will be reviewed and handled according to the Constitution and laws.” Han’s side is reportedly carefully considering the veto request on the special prosecutor bills and the appointment of constitutional judges, in accordance with constitutional and legal guidelines. A People Power Party official said that these issues require a review of their constitutionality and legality.

[Kim Tae-jun]

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