Han Byeong-do, the acting leader of the Democratic Party and floor leader, stated that the party will gather consensus in a general meeting of lawmakers to swiftly finalize legislation aimed at abolishing the prosecution's supplementary investigation rights. He emphasized the party's responsibility as the ruling party to shoulder the weight of national governance.
During a Supreme Council meeting held on July 24 at the National Assembly, Han remarked, "The complete separation of investigation and prosecution is a key task of the Lee Jae-myung administration and a steadfast principle of the Democratic Party." He noted that the party has consistently maintained this principle from the abolition of the prosecution office last September to the discussions on the amendment of the Criminal Procedure Act this March. Despite internal disagreements, the Democratic Party has confirmed its stance to fully abolish supplementary investigation rights, believing that further delays in prosecutorial reform legislation are unacceptable. However, there are ongoing concerns regarding potential gaps in investigations and the need for enhanced victim protection measures.
As a result, the Democratic Party plans to revisit the amendment to the Criminal Procedure Act in the afternoon general meeting. Han reiterated, "The amendment to the Criminal Procedure Act is the final piece of the puzzle for prosecutorial reform. Establishing a new criminal justice system requires thorough deliberation and discussion. The discussions have matured, and it is time to yield results."
In response to criticism from the People Power Party regarding the real estate policy forum hosted by President Lee Jae-myung the previous day, Han strongly criticized them as a "party that has predetermined answers and repeats them." He stated, "Immediately after the forum, they were quick to dismiss it as a 'show for public opinion manipulation.' I am concerned that the real estate forum the People Power Party intends to hold may also become a platform for disparaging government policies."
Han specifically pointed out the People Power Party's plans for a real estate forum and policy discussions with Seoul Mayor Oh Se-hoon, stating, "The idea of discussing housing stability with a mayor who has been sentenced to lose his position is difficult to accept and undermines the trust of 10 million Seoul citizens." He urged the opposition party to stop the cycle of criticism and to responsibly cooperate in legislation aimed at expanding housing supply and formulating policies for the stability of actual housing demand.
* This article has been translated by AI.
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