In a dramatic turn of events, Han Dong-hoon, leader of South Korea’s ruling People Power Party, has called for the swift suspension of President Yoon Suk-yeol’s constitutional powers. The announcement comes in the wake of President Yoon’s controversial declaration of martial law earlier this week.
At an emergency meeting of party leaders on Friday, Han reversed his previous stance against the opposition’s push to impeach the president. “On the day martial law was declared, President Yoon ordered the arrest of major politicians,” Han stated. “Reliable sources confirm that he used intelligence agencies to target political figures.”
Han warned that if President Yoon continues in his role, the nation could face further extreme actions. “The repetition of such drastic measures puts our country and people in great danger,” he cautioned.
The opposition Democratic Party has scheduled an impeachment vote for Saturday evening. Meanwhile, the national police have launched an investigation into President Yoon on charges of insurrection filed by opposition parties and activists.
Public sentiment appears to be against the president. According to a poll conducted on Thursday by local firm Realmeter, 73.6% of respondents support Yoon’s impeachment. Thousands of protesters have taken to the streets of central Seoul and gathered near the parliament, demanding his resignation.
If the impeachment motion passes, President Yoon would be suspended pending a verdict from the Constitutional Court. Should the court uphold the impeachment, new elections must be held within 60 days.
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South Korean ruling party leader calls for suspension of Yoon's powers
cgtn.com
