Justice Party Calls for Immediate Halt to President Lee Jae-myung's Trial
On June 8, the Justice Party (조국혁신당) held a press conference urging the immediate suspension of legal proceedings against President Lee Jae-myung, citing Article 84 of the Constitution. This article states that a sitting president cannot face criminal prosecution unless charged with insurrection or treason. The interpretation of this clause is currently debated, particularly whether it applies to ongoing trials as well as new charges.
Acting Party Leader Kim Sun-min criticized the notion that the privilege of non-prosecution applies only to indictments, calling it a legal technicality. He argued that keeping a president, who was elected with the highest vote count in history, tied up in court is a tactic to undermine the government.
Kim also emphasized the need for the National Assembly to expedite the passage of amendments to the Criminal Procedure Act, stating that they should not wait for the goodwill of individual courts but should clearly define the procedural realization of the constitutional privilege.
Following the press conference, Kim addressed concerns from within the party and civil society regarding the appointment of Oh Kwang-soo as Chief of Civil Affairs. He acknowledged the concerns but reaffirmed the party's trust in the president's commitment to judicial reform. He stated that they would monitor the president's intentions regarding this appointment closely.
Regarding the speculation about Lee Seung-yeop, a lawyer who previously defended President Lee, being considered for a Constitutional Court judge position, Kim remarked that it is not finalized and that discussing it at this stage is inappropriate.
