Government Accepts Abolition of Prosecutorial Investigation Rights

The amendment to the criminal procedure law, which centers on the separation of investigation and prosecution, passed the Cabinet meeting on August 4. This marks the end of prosecutorial investigation rights that have been in place since the enactment of the law in 1954. Starting October 2, most complaints and reports will be received by the police.

The government plans to accept the legislative decision of the National Assembly while initiating follow-up measures to prevent the monopolization and excessive expansion of police investigation powers.

President Lee Jae-myung stated during the Cabinet meeting at the Blue House, "It is not a situation serious enough to deny the legislative authority of the National Assembly due to unconstitutionality, inability to enforce, violation of national interests, or infringement on the executive branch's unique powers." This is interpreted as a clear indication that he will not exercise his veto power.

President Lee reiterated, "A veto cannot be exercised simply because of differing opinions," emphasizing that he will not invoke the right to request reconsideration. He described the separation of investigation and prosecution as the first step toward normalizing an abnormal criminal justice system, calling it a "necessary measure for the rightful governance of all power institutions under the control of the people."

However, he expressed concerns about the potential for police powers to become excessive following the abolition of prosecutorial investigation rights. He urged the need to revise related laws and systems, enhance the fairness and capability of investigations, and strengthen democratic oversight to prevent unjust harm to citizens.

Additionally, President Lee addressed the necessity of the real estate tax reform announced by the government the previous day. He pointed out the inequity between taxes imposed on labor income and those on capital gains from real estate.

He noted, "While the top labor income tax can reach up to 49.5% with various additions, taxes on capital gains from real estate, even when they amount to hundreds of millions of won, are only a few million won. It is unfair that those who invest and earn tens of millions of won pay almost no taxes compared to labor income earners."

President Lee characterized the current tax system as favoring real estate investment and speculation over genuine housing needs, labeling the reform as a "normalization of the tax system." He explained that the phased restoration of the heavy taxation on multiple homeowners is not an extension of a grace period but a temporary measure to encourage the sale of properties.

He emphasized, "Consistency in policy is very important. Decisions should be made carefully, but once made, they must be resolute to build trust in government policy."