"An Accomplice Who Remained Silent on Martial Law and Defended the Ringleader of the Rebellion"
Gwangju May organizations strongly criticized Ahn Changho, Chairperson of the National Human Rights Commission, for attending the May 18 Commemoration Ceremony, condemning his silence on the unconstitutional martial law and emergency decrees.
The May Mothers' House and the May 18 Seoul Memorial Association issued a statement on May 15, saying, "We oppose the visit to the May 18 National Cemetery by a co-conspirator in the rebellion who remained silent on the unconstitutional martial law and emergency decrees and defended the ringleader of the rebellion."
The organizations pointed out, "The National Human Rights Commission clearly states that its purpose is to 'realize the dignity and value of humanity and contribute to the establishment of a democratic order.' However, although the Commission describes itself as a 'comprehensive agency dedicated to all matters related to the protection and promotion of human rights,' it continues to engage in anti-human rights regression."
They continued, "The Human Rights Commission, which should be wiping away the tears of victims of human rights violations caused by state violence, has instead protected the ringleader of the rebellion. Both domestic and international human rights advocates have repeatedly expressed their deep distress over this situation. Nevertheless, Chairperson Ahn has never once expressed any intention to apologize or reflect. Furthermore, during his confirmation hearing for the position, he repeatedly made explicit hate remarks against sexual minorities, such as claiming that 'the introduction of an anti-discrimination law would lead to the spread of AIDS,'" they emphasized.
The organizations also stated, "Chairperson Ahn put forward agenda items such as guaranteeing the right to defense in the impeachment trial and related investigations of former President Yoon Sukyeol, the ringleader of the rebellion, and recommended that investigative agencies such as the Corruption Investigation Office for High-ranking Officials and the National Office of Investigation refrain from requesting arrest and detention warrants. This constitutes an abuse of the Human Rights Commission to protect Yoon Sukyeol. As a result, Chairperson Ahn and six other conservative human rights commissioners have been reported to the Corruption Investigation Office," they pointed out.
Meanwhile, the organizations added, "Chairperson Ahn's complicity in the rebellion did not stop there. He drew criticism by submitting a written response defending the far-right riot at the Western District Court, where an arrest warrant was issued for Yoon Sukyeol, the ringleader of the rebellion. And yet, he has suddenly announced his intention to attend the May 18 Commemoration Ceremony in the midst of the presidential election triggered by the dismissal of Yoon Sukyeol. Who could possibly be deceived by such intentions?"
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