Kim Jonghyuk, former Supreme Council member of the People Power Party and an ally of Han Donghoon, who is facing the threat of a severe disciplinary action of a two-year suspension of party membership, announced on January 19 that he intends to file a motion to recuse Yoon Minwoo, Chairperson of the Central Ethics Committee.
After attending the Ethics Committee meeting held at the party headquarters in Yeouido on this day and completing the process of presenting his case, Kim met with reporters and said, "According to the Ethics Committee regulations, there are provisions for disqualification and recusal," making his intention clear.
Kim claimed, "In the written decision expelling former leader Han Donghoon, Chairperson Yoon compared me to a 'mafia' and called me a 'terrorist.' This is evidence that the Chairperson of the Ethics Committee already presumes I have committed a crime."
It has been reported that the Ethics Committee informed Kim, who expressed his intention to file for recusal, to submit the application via email by midnight today. According to the People Power Party's constitution and regulations, a subject of disciplinary review may submit a written statement and request the recusal of any committee member if there is concern that the member may make a significantly unfair decision.
Previously, the Party Affairs Audit Committee recommended to the Ethics Committee last month that Kim receive a two-year suspension of party membership, citing remarks in media interviews that insulted the party leadership and members. Subsequently, the Ethics Committee requested Kim to attend the meeting and present his position. Once the Ethics Committee decides on the level of disciplinary action at an upcoming meeting, the decision will be finalized following deliberation by the Supreme Council.
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