Chairman Ahn Changho Unable to Attend May 18 Commemoration Ceremony Due to Protests

Chairman Ahn Changho Turns Back Due to Protests from May 18 Organizations

National Human Rights Commission Chairman Ahn Changho was unable to enter the National May 18 Democratic Cemetery in Buk-gu, Gwangju on the morning of the 18th due to citizens' obstruction. Photo by Min Chanki

National Human Rights Commission Chairman Ahn Changho was unable to attend the May 18 commemoration ceremony due to protests from citizens.

On the morning of the 18th, at the National May 18 Democratic Cemetery in Buk-gu, Gwangju, where the ceremony was being held, citizens continued to protest Chairman Ahn's visit.

Citizens and some members of May 18 organizations held signs reading "Chairman Ahn has no right to participate in the May 18 commemoration ceremony." When Chairman Ahn arrived at the Gate of Democracy, they shouted, "Ahn Changho, step down."

The citizens' opposition extended to the temporary security checkpoint set up for the ceremony at the cemetery. After a confrontation with security personnel, Chairman Ahn turned back.

Returning to the Gate of Democracy, Chairman Ahn responded to reporters' questions about his position by saying, "It's too noisy for me to say anything," and then left the cemetery.

The previous day, Chairman Ahn had requested police protection and was scheduled to be accompanied by about 20 police officers on this day.

On May 15, the May Mothers' House and the May 18 Seoul Memorial Association issued a statement asserting that "Chairman Ahn has no right to attend the May 18 commemoration ceremony, which is a symbol of democracy and human rights," and claimed that "he is an accomplice to insurrection for remaining silent on the unconstitutional 12·3 Martial Law and proclamation, and for defending the leaders of the rebellion."

They also stated, "Chairman Ahn was reported for abuse of authority by the Human Rights Commission, such as putting on the agenda the guarantee of defense rights in the impeachment trial and related investigation of insurrection leader Yoon Sukyeol, and recommending that investigative agencies not request arrest or detention warrants," adding, "He has no right to pay tribute to the spirits of May."