Lee Jae-myung Criticizes Prime Minister’s Authority in Constitutional Court Appointments 🤨

Lee Jae-myung, a prominent figure in the Democratic Party of Korea and a potential presidential contender, has voiced strong criticism against Prime Minister Han Duck-soo, who is currently acting as the President. The issue revolves around Han’s nomination of candidates for the Constitutional Court.

Key Points of Lee Jae-myung’s Statement

• “Han seems to think he has become the President.” Lee criticized Han, stating that he appears to be overstepping his authority.
• “A rabbit doesn’t become a tiger by entering a tiger’s den.” Lee used this proverb to emphasize that Han does not possess the authority to make such appointments.
• Constitutional Court Composition: He explained that the Constitutional Court is meant to be composed of members appointed by the elected President, the elected National Assembly, and the neutral Supreme Court, each appointing three members.
• Han’s Overreach: Lee asserts that Han does not have the authority to appoint these members and is overreaching his position.

Background and Context

Lee Jae-myung made these comments after attending a court hearing related to allegations of breach of trust and bribery involving the Daejang-dong development project and Seongnam FC. He addressed reporters outside the Seoul Central District Court.

Earlier that day, Lee attended his trial on charges of breach of trust and bribery. He did not respond to questions about his absence from a witness hearing related to the Daejang-dong case or his objection to a fine imposed on him.

Han Duck-soo’s Actions

• Appointment of Ma Eun-hyuk: Han appointed Ma Eun-hyuk as a Justice of the Constitutional Court. This appointment came after a delay of 103 days since Ma’s nomination was approved by the National Assembly.
• Nomination of Replacements: Han also nominated replacements for Moon Hyung-bae and Lee Mi-sun, whose terms are expiring. These nominations are typically the President’s responsibility. The nominees are Lee Wan-kyu, head of the Ministry of Government Legislation, and Ham Sang-hoon, a senior judge at the Seoul High Court.

Lee’s remarks highlight a significant political dispute regarding the extent of the Prime Minister’s authority while serving as the acting President, particularly concerning appointments to critical judicial positions like the Constitutional Court. 🤔

Daejang-dong development project: A controversial real estate development project in Seongnam, South Korea.

Seongnam FC: A professional soccer club based in Seongnam, South Korea.

Source: News article from Newsis.