Cho Kuk, former leader of the Cho Kuk Innovation Party, addressed concerns regarding the complete abolition of supplementary investigation rights on July 19, stating that "the focus should first be on a precise framework for prosecutors' rights to request supplementary investigations." He criticized the Democratic Party of Korea's claim that there has been no formal party decision on abolishing supplementary investigation rights, calling it a case of "turning a blind eye."
In a Facebook post, Cho noted, "After many twists and turns, the laws for the Central Investigation Agency and the Public Prosecution Agency have passed, and the sign of the prosecution office will be removed in October." He added, "The remaining question is whether to grant supplementary investigation rights to prosecutors affiliated with the Public Prosecution Agency beyond the right to request supplementary investigations."
He further pointed out that a recent bill suddenly proposed by Hong Gi-won, a former diplomat, would effectively reverse the 'cooperative relationship' achieved during the first phase of prosecutorial reform under the Moon Jae-in administration and significantly expand the scope of prosecutors' supplementary investigation rights.
Cho emphasized, "During the era of military and prosecutorial dictatorship, the relationship between the prosecution and police was one of prosecutorial dominance over the police. The public has experienced the harms of prosecutorial abuse of power under this structure. We must discuss this with the understanding that we need to prevent both the abuse of prosecutorial power and inadequate police investigations."
He also questioned whether direct supplementary investigation rights for prosecutors are the only solution to prevent inadequate police investigations and protect victims, suggesting that a precise framework for prosecutors' rights to request supplementary investigations and strengthening police compliance obligations should be examined.
Cho concluded by reiterating that "the focus should first be on a precise framework for prosecutors' rights to request supplementary investigations," asserting that advocating for recognition of supplementary investigation rights without this foundation is a mistake.
* This article has been translated by AI.
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