South Korea’s opposition lawmakers have filed a motion to impeach Prime Minister Han Duck-soo, just days after parliament voted to impeach President Yoon Suk Yeol.
The motion follows Han’s refusal to appoint constitutional court judges nominated by the opposition Democratic Party (DP).
DP’s floor leader Park Chan-dae criticized Han, stating, “Han has revealed himself to be an acting insurrectionist, not an acting president.”
The opposition also accused Han of supporting Yoon’s attempt to impose martial law on December 3, for which Han later apologized.
Additionally, Han vetoed several opposition-backed bills, including one proposing a special investigation into the martial law declaration.
The impeachment motion is expected to be voted on within 24 to 72 hours, requiring 151 votes from the 300-member parliament to succeed.
The DP holds 170 seats, and the opposition bloc together holds 192 seats.
Opposition lawmakers had hoped Han would be more neutral while acting as the country’s caretaker president. Instead, his actions have deepened political conflict.
On Tuesday, Han concluded a cabinet meeting without reviewing opposition-sponsored bills calling for investigations into martial law and corruption allegations involving the first lady, Kim Keon Hee.
Park condemned Han’s delay tactics, accusing him of “buying time and prolonging the insurrection.”
On Thursday, Han said he would not appoint the three judges nominated by the opposition-dominated National Assembly unless there was a consensus, further escalating tensions.
Park responded, saying, “It has become clear that Han Duck-soo is neither qualified nor willing to defend the constitution,” vowing to proceed with the impeachment motion.
The ruling People Power Party defended Han’s actions, arguing that the opposition’s threats have interfered with his “legitimate exercise of authority.”
If Han is impeached, Finance Minister Choi Sang-mok would assume the role of caretaker president.
This development occurs as the Seoul Constitutional Court deliberates on whether Yoon should be permanently banned from office.
The court is set to hold its first public hearing later this week, though it remains unclear if Yoon will testify. Protesters are continuing their demands for Yoon’s removal.
Yoon is also under investigation for alleged insurrection related to his failed martial law attempt and has refused several summons, prompting warnings that an arrest warrant may be issued if he does not comply.
Several senior officials, including former defense minister Kim Yong-hyun, former interior minister Lee Sang-min, and army chief Park An-su, are also under investigation.
Source-BBC
