Budget Policy Council Held in Gwangju
Party Leadership Shows Differences in Stance
Chief Justice Cho Hee-dae denied the allegations raised by the Democratic Party of Korea, but Representative Jung Cheongrae responded strongly, saying, "If you feel wronged, you should confidently appear before the special prosecutor, undergo an investigation, and prove your innocence."
At the budget policy council held in Gwangju on the 18th, Representative Jung addressed Chief Justice Cho, stating, "During the December 3 Martial Law and the Western District Court riot, Chief Justice Cho Hee-dae remained silent, but yesterday he spoke freely." He added, "He must quickly clarify why the Supreme Court returned Lee Jaemyung's presidential election law case with such haste, as if roasting beans over a lightning fire." The Special Committee for Comprehensive Response to the Three Major Special Prosecutors, chaired by Supreme Council Member Jeon Hyunhee, is scheduled to propose a bill in the afternoon to establish a dedicated court for cases of rebellion and state corruption.
However, there appears to be a difference in tone among the party's floor leadership. Kim Hyunjung, the Democratic Party's floor spokesperson, said, "There is no confirmation as to whether there are additional reports." Regarding the possibility of a special prosecutor's investigation into Chief Justice Cho, she stated, "Special prosecution, a parliamentary investigation, and impeachment are all methodological arguments and are not something that will be pursued as the official party line." Floor Leader Kim Byungki did not make any public remarks on the matter during the policy coordination meeting that day.
Previously, Assemblyman Boo Seungchan raised suspicions during a government interpellation session at the National Assembly, alleging that on April 7, three days after the dismissal of former President Yoon Sukyeol, Chief Justice Cho had lunch with former Prime Minister Han Ducksoo and others, during which they discussed President Lee Jaemyung’s violation of the Public Official Election Act. In response, Chief Justice Cho issued a statement the same day denying the allegations.
Meanwhile, Jang Donghyuk, leader of the People Power Party, stated at the Supreme Council meeting that day, "The ultimate goal is to build a one-party dictatorship led by President Lee Jaemyung for permanent rule." He added, "We must not tolerate the abuse of power entrusted by the people for the destruction of the constitution in pursuit of one-party dictatorship."
© The Asia Business Daily(www.asiae.co.kr). All rights reserved.
