Yoon Sang-hyun, chairman of the National Assembly's special investigation committee on the recent shortage of ballots during the local elections, stated on July 26 that "a public recount and a special investigation must proceed together. The best approach is to conduct the public recount under the supervision of the special investigation team."
During a press conference at the National Assembly, Yoon argued, "With the emergence of ballot manipulation incidents, it seems unlikely that the special investigation committee can conclude its work, so the duration should be extended."
He asserted that the special investigation should comprehensively address not only the ballot shortage but also the recently revealed ballot manipulation incidents, allegations of inadequate and fraudulent elections, and other related cases identified during the investigation. While both ruling and opposition parties previously agreed on the method for recommending the special investigation, they have yet to reach a consensus on the duration or scope of the investigation.
Regarding the recount, Yoon noted, "There are differing opinions among members of the People Power Party. Many believe that a public recount should be conducted promptly," adding, "I hope this can be discussed in a general meeting of lawmakers when the opportunity arises."
Earlier, the ruling and opposition parties clashed over the timing of the recount for 2.47 million ballots stored at the handball stadium in Olympic Park, Songpa District, Seoul. The Democratic Party has called for an "immediate recount," while the People Power Party has insisted on waiting until the special investigation is launched.
Meanwhile, the special investigation committee's activities are set to conclude by August 1. If an agreement on extending the duration fails, it is expected that the committee will adopt its report and disband. Yoon mentioned that "discussions are ongoing among the committee members" and expressed optimism that a conclusion might be reached within the week.
During a press conference at the National Assembly, Yoon argued, "With the emergence of ballot manipulation incidents, it seems unlikely that the special investigation committee can conclude its work, so the duration should be extended."
He asserted that the special investigation should comprehensively address not only the ballot shortage but also the recently revealed ballot manipulation incidents, allegations of inadequate and fraudulent elections, and other related cases identified during the investigation. While both ruling and opposition parties previously agreed on the method for recommending the special investigation, they have yet to reach a consensus on the duration or scope of the investigation.
Regarding the recount, Yoon noted, "There are differing opinions among members of the People Power Party. Many believe that a public recount should be conducted promptly," adding, "I hope this can be discussed in a general meeting of lawmakers when the opportunity arises."
Earlier, the ruling and opposition parties clashed over the timing of the recount for 2.47 million ballots stored at the handball stadium in Olympic Park, Songpa District, Seoul. The Democratic Party has called for an "immediate recount," while the People Power Party has insisted on waiting until the special investigation is launched.
Meanwhile, the special investigation committee's activities are set to conclude by August 1. If an agreement on extending the duration fails, it is expected that the committee will adopt its report and disband. Yoon mentioned that "discussions are ongoing among the committee members" and expressed optimism that a conclusion might be reached within the week.
* This article has been translated by AI.
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