Home > National > Politics

PPP leader says he supports Yoon's impeachment, urges party to vote

Published: 12 Dec. 2024, 10:03 Updated: 12 Dec. 2024, 11:44

LEE SOO-JUNG
[email protected]

Conservative People Power Party leader Han Dong-hoon bows during a press conference at the National Assembly in western Seoul on Thursday. [NEWS1]

Conservative People Power Party (PPP) leader Han Dong-hoon said on Thursday that President Yoon Suk Yeol has no intention of voluntarily stepping down before his official term ends and that he supports Yoon's impeachment.

During a press conference, Han said, “Suspending Yoon from presidential duty through impeachment is the only way to protect the democratic republic.”

When directly asked if he is in favor of impeachment, Han said, "Yes."

Han added that his party’s lawmakers should participate in an impeachment vote based on their beliefs and conscience. His recent remarks contrast with last Saturday's parliamentary vote, where PPP lawmakers boycotted the proceedings.

“Despite efforts to find other means than impeachment, those alternatives no longer seem valid,” Han said.

Han said that Yoon should be suspended from managing state affairs immediately, including his command of the military.

Han said Yoon's refusal to resign early contradicts his earlier promise to relinquish decision-making authority over his term and state affairs.

"Although early resignation appeared to be more predictable and a swifter resolution, the premise was Yoon's willingness to abide by public judgment and allow the party to determine his duties."

Han also said President Yoon was explicitly named as a major accomplice in the insurrection in the arrest warrant issued for former Defense Minister Kim Yong-hyun, who stands accused of advising Yoon to declare martial law. He added that his stance on Yoon's resignation, stemming from the "unconstitutional martial law," remains unchanged. Han further emphasized that those involved in "illegal and unconstitutional martial law should be sternly punished."

Han said he had not been notified in advance of Yoon's unexpected public address on Thursday morning.

Later, in a parliamentary chamber convened after Yoon's address for PPP lawmakers to elect their new floor leader, Han likened Yoon’s statement to a "confession of insurrection." He called it "intolerable," given the gravity of the current situation.

Han said his party should step forward in swiftly suspending Yoon from his presidential duties. He also urged the PPP’s ethics committee to discuss Yoon’s expulsion from the party.

Update, Dec. 12: Added details of Han's remarks.

BY LEE SOO-JUNG [[email protected]]