"Separation of powers is the final bulwark against the abuse of power"
On September 16, Lee Junseok, leader of the Reform New Party, criticized demands for Supreme Court Chief Justice Cho Heedae's resignation, stating, "The separation of powers is the last bulwark against the abuse of power," and added, "Those who attempt to destroy that bulwark are the true villains of democracy."
On this day, through social networking services (SNS), Lee wrote, "The government and the ruling party are threatening impeachment against Supreme Court Chief Justice Cho Heedae simply because he delivered a verdict they did not like."
Previously, Jeong Cheongrae, leader of the Democratic Party of Korea, and other members of the ruling bloc demanded Chief Justice Cho's resignation, claiming he had violated political neutrality. Some hardline lawmakers even raised the possibility of impeachment.
Lee pointed out, "It is possible to criticize Chief Justice Cho for reaching a verdict too quickly, but whether he turned a case that should have been acquitted into a conviction can only be determined if the president decides to reopen the trial."
He then questioned, "If people argue that 'justice delayed is justice denied, so things must proceed quickly' because President Yoon Sukyeol's insurrection trial has now lasted about seven months, then is the delayed trial of President Lee Jaemyung under the Public Official Election Act, which has dragged on for more than three years since indictment, considered just?"
Lee further criticized, "Even more absurd is the so-called 'Special Tribunal for Insurrection,' which is nothing more than a political court," and added, "Is this like moving the goalposts at will just because you can't score a goal while playing soccer with three special prosecutors?"
© The Asia Business Daily(www.asiae.co.kr). All rights reserved.
