South Korea’s opposition Democratic Party on Thursday threatened to impeach acting President Han Duk-soo unless he immediately appoints three judges to fill vacancies on the country’s Constitutional Court.
While parliament has endorsed the three nominees, Han – who replaced predecessor Yoon Suk Yeol – has yet to formally appoint them.
The court is investigating whether President Yoon Suk Yeol should be removed from office after declaring martial law on December 3.
Han’s refusal to approve the appointment of judges effectively delays the process of removing Yun.
Parliament member Park Sung-joon said, “We have filed the proposal… and will report it to the plenary session today.” “We will have a vote on this tomorrow.”
Democratic Party floor leader Park Chan-dae said Han’s refusal to formally appoint the three judges proved he “does not have the will or ability to uphold the Constitution.”
Finance Minister Choi Sang-mok is expected to take over as acting president in Han’s place.
rc/rm (AFP, Reuters)
