Han Byeong-do, the acting leader of the Democratic Party, criticized the People Power Party on July 26, stating, "What the People Power Party should do is work, not incite." His remarks came in response to the party's criticism of a proposed amendment to the criminal procedure law aimed at abolishing supplementary investigation rights.
In a Facebook post, Han stated, "The People Power Party is once again launching irresponsible political attacks regarding the reform of the 'criminal justice system for the people.'" He added, "They are misleading the public with provocative language, such as accusations of treason, while engaging in irrational and false incitement to protect prosecutorial privileges."
Han further accused the People Power Party of disregarding the principle of separation of powers by involving the president in their actions. He questioned, "Who has abandoned the responsibilities of the legislative branch by continuing a boycott of the National Assembly for over 50 days?"
He emphasized that the Democratic Party has adopted a proposal that firmly upholds the spirit of the times, which is the 'complete separation of investigation and prosecution,' while also ensuring protections for vulnerable groups and checks on investigative agencies.
Han asserted, "It is the People Power Party that has boycotted discussions for their political purposes, neglecting the people's livelihood. Who has betrayed the public?"
He specifically criticized the People Power Party's claim that only direct investigative powers can protect the public, calling it a blatant falsehood that equates prosecutorial privileges with public safety. He stated, "The People Power Party is responsible for creating a prosecutorial dictatorship that undermines the constitutional order and democracy of South Korea."
Han urged the People Power Party to focus on cooperating with the Democratic Party and the Lee Jae-myung administration in restoring livelihoods and achieving a great leap forward for South Korea, rather than exacerbating public anxiety by trying to protect the prosecution. He expressed hope that the People Power Party would not be remembered as a treasonous party due to their irresponsible National Assembly strike.
Meanwhile, Jeong Jeong-sik, the floor leader of the People Power Party, stated on Facebook, "If the abolition of supplementary investigation rights passes a vote in the National Assembly and President Lee Jae-myung even gives up his right to request reconsideration, that will mark the beginning of the downfall of the government and the ruling party."
* This article has been translated by AI.
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