South Korea: Political Parties React Differently to Court's Upcoming Verdict on Yoon's Impeachment
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Synopsis
Seoul's political parties demonstrate contrasting views on the impending Constitutional Court ruling regarding President Yoon Suk Yeol's impeachment, with optimism from the ruling party and calls for removal from the opposition.
Key Takeaways
- The ruling People Power Party hopes for Yoon's case dismissal.
- The Democratic Party insists on Yoon's removal from office.
- The court's decision is set for Friday, April 1.
- A minimum of six judges must agree to uphold the impeachment.
- 107 days have passed since Yoon's impeachment.
Seoul, April 1 (NationPress) The political landscape in South Korea is witnessing contrasting reactions from rival parties regarding an upcoming decision by the Constitutional Court concerning President Yoon Suk Yeol's impeachment. The ruling party is optimistic about the dismissal of the case, while the primary opposition party advocates for Yoon's removal from his position.
At 11 a.m. this Friday, the court is set to announce whether to reinstate or dismiss Yoon, who faced impeachment by the National Assembly on grounds of breaching the Constitution and laws through a brief declaration of martial law on December 3.
Interim leader of the ruling People Power Party (PPP), Kwon Young-se, expressed his expectations to reporters, stating, "We hope each justice of the Constitutional Court will reach a neutral and fair decision, keeping in mind the national interest." Kwon also emphasized that the opposition should respect the final verdict.
On the other hand, the main opposition party, the Democratic Party (DP), welcomed the court's decision to deliver its ruling this week, insisting that Yoon should formally be removed from office.
DP floor leader Park Chan-dae commented, "It is at least reassuring that the ruling is scheduled for Friday. The optimal verdict to resolve the ongoing crisis surrounding the insurrection is undoubtedly to dismiss Yoon, the orchestrator of the insurrection."
Park expressed strong confidence that the court would reach a unanimous decision in favor of Yoon's impeachment, according to reports from Yonhap news agency.
The court currently operates with an eight-member bench, requiring the agreement of at least six judges to uphold Yoon's impeachment.
Yoon faced impeachment on December 14 due to his unsuccessful attempt to impose martial law.
Historically, it took 63 days for former President Roh Moo-hyun to be reinstated and 92 days for former President Park Geun-hye to be ousted following their impeachment motions.
With 107 days elapsed since Yoon's impeachment, the court has yet to deliver its ruling. Notably, two judges appointed by the previous administration will see their terms expire on April 18.
