Han Byeong-do, the acting leader of the Democratic Party, announced plans to hold a policy meeting next week to further discuss the amendments to the Criminal Procedure Law, which could not reach a conclusion during the party's general meeting on July 14.
Speaking at a Supreme Council meeting on July 15, Han stated, "We held an in-depth discussion on the Criminal Procedure Law amendments during yesterday's general meeting. To ensure the new criminal justice system launches smoothly on October 2, we must complete the legislative process in a timely manner with thorough deliberation."
He described the amendments as a key legislative effort to achieve the fundamental principle of separating investigation and prosecution, which is essential for prosecutorial reform, and to establish a citizen-centered criminal justice system. "The Democratic Party is concentrating all its efforts to ensure the new system operates stably in people's lives," he added.
Han emphasized the importance of listening to diverse opinions within the party, as well as from the legal community, academia, and civil society, given that the bill directly relates to the protection of citizens' rights and victims. He pledged to hold another policy meeting next week for further intense discussions.
Additionally, with the party convention scheduled for August, Han addressed the escalating factional conflicts within the party, urging members to engage in competition that enhances the party's values and dignity.
He noted that candidate registration and preliminary elections for the party convention will take place on July 16 and 21, respectively, and called on all candidates to seek the support of the public and party members through honorable competition that elevates the Democratic Party's values and dignity.
Han also criticized the People Power Party for continuing its boycott of the National Assembly's reorganization. "How long will the People Power Party ignore the people's livelihood and national interests? They are prioritizing political strife over the public's needs," he said. "If the People Power Party continues to disregard the normalization of the National Assembly, the Democratic Party will have no choice but to make a significant decision for a functioning legislature. I urge them to cooperate with the reorganization immediately."
* This article has been translated by AI.
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