"An Unthinkable Destruction of the Constitution"
Former People Power Party lawmaker Yoo Seung-min on the 4th described President Yoon Suk-yeol's declaration and lifting of martial law as "an unconstitutional act that could never be tolerated and a failed rebellion."
President Yoon Suk-yeol declared martial law on the night of the 3rd, and in the early morning of the 4th, martial law troops are attempting to enter the main building of the National Assembly. Photo by Kim Hyun-min
On the same day, Yoo stated on SBS Radio's 'Kim Tae-hyun's Political Show,' "Since the president declared martial law under conditions that did not meet the requirements at all, it was a violation of the constitution."
According to Article 84 of the Constitution, "The President shall not be subject to criminal prosecution during the term of office except in cases of rebellion or treason," so as Yoo said, if it is considered a "rebellion," it would be grounds for prosecution.
When the radio host asked, "If it is a failed rebellion, should the National Assembly initiate impeachment proceedings?" Yoo responded, "I believe this is something the people will judge," adding, "The opposition party should not recklessly act ahead of or beyond the people's judgment."
He continued, "How President Yoon will take responsibility for this, how the National Assembly will judge it, and how the people will judge it?these issues must be resolved within the constitutional order."
He further explained, "Impeachment and such must be conducted calmly and rationally according to the constitution and laws," adding, "Although I consider it a failed rebellion, if impeachment proceedings are initiated, there will be judgments by the Constitutional Court, prosecution, and courts."
Regarding the possibility of division within the People Power Party, he analyzed, "It is not significant," and said, "A majority of People Power Party lawmakers probably supported the vote like the one yesterday."
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