Na Kyung-won Attends 'Fast-Track Case' Trial: "It Was Resistance Against Ruling Party's Tyranny"

First Hearing of National Assembly Fast-Track Case Opens
27 Party Officials Divided into Three Groups for Trial

[Image source=Yonhap News]

[Asia Economy Reporter Yoo Byung-don] Na Kyung-won, former floor leader of the Liberty Korea Party (now People Power Party), who was indicted for the 'National Assembly Fast-Track (Rapid Processing Agenda) Clash Incident' that occurred last year, appeared in court and expressed "a feeling of regret and despair."

The Criminal Division 11 of the Seoul Southern District Court (Chief Judge Lee Hwan-seung) held the first trial on the 21st for 27 current and former lawmakers and party officials, including Na Kyung-won, Hwang Kyo-ahn, and Yoon Han-hong, who were indicted on charges such as obstruction of special official duties.

The defendants denied the prosecution's allegations, stating that "(the facts of the case) do not meet the elements of a crime and there is no illegality." Regarding the charge of confinement against former Bareunmirae Party lawmaker Chae Yi-bae, they claimed some factual discrepancies.

Na, who appeared in court that day, said, "I apologize for standing in court after being chosen by the people to serve the country," and added, "As the floor leader at the time, I take full responsibility."

He continued, "The Fast-Track clash was a resistance against the tyranny of the majority ruling party and the disregard of minority opinions," emphasizing, "I hope this trial becomes a model of liberal democracy that upholds constitutional values and protects the autonomy and independence of the legislative branch."

Meanwhile, to prevent the spread of the novel coronavirus infection (COVID-19), the trial was conducted in three groups. Most defendants attended the morning session, but former lawmaker Min Kyung-wook was absent due to an overseas business trip. The court stated it would consider issuing an arrest warrant.

Na and others were indicted without detention in January on charges of occupying the legislative affairs office, the Political Affairs Special Committee, and the Judiciary Committee meeting rooms to obstruct meetings during the 'National Assembly Fast-Track Clash' in April last year.

The prosecution also indicted 10 current and former Democratic Party officials on charges including joint assault along with them.