Han Byeong-do, the floor leader of the Democratic Party, called for the resignation of Chief Justice Cho Hee-dae on October 13, stating that Cho is the one who has undermined the authority and trust of the judiciary due to allegations of bonus payments.
During a National Assembly meeting on the government's audit, Han said, "Through the audit conducted the previous day, it was confirmed that Cho's office provided cash bonuses to justices and the head of the court administration." He added, "According to documents reviewed by members of the National Assembly's Legislative and Judiciary Committee, the withdrawn cash was delivered to each justice's office via Cho's chief of staff and secretaries."
Han emphasized, "Audit Commissioner Kim Ho-cheol also clearly stated that the entity responsible for the bonus payments is Chief Justice Cho. Nevertheless, Cho is making false explanations to evade responsibility. The reason for refusing to take an oath as a witness is to avoid perjury charges. He should recognize that he is the one who has damaged the authority and trust of the judiciary and resign from his position."
Additionally, Han criticized lawmakers Lee Jin-sook and Joo Jin-woo, who have been targeting President Lee Jae-myung, stating, "Their excessive rhetoric and behavior have gone too far."
He remarked, "The president directed immediate efforts for rescue and safe recovery after receiving reports of the incident, but Joo is only focused on political attacks. Even within the People Power Party, there are voices urging to stop exploiting the tragedy. Joo also posted a chilling message about 'cutting off Lee Jae-myung.' This is akin to making death threats against a president who has faced life-threatening political terror."
Han further noted, "Lee brought a photo of the president's grave to the National Assembly's Science, Technology, Information, Broadcasting, and Communications Committee audit the previous day. This behavior is beyond disgraceful. The competition of excessive rhetoric between the two lawmakers is eroding the dignity of the National Assembly and the integrity of politics. The People Power Party should not ignore such conduct and fulfill its responsibilities as a political party."
* This article has been translated by AI.
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