Call for Revisions to 'Crime of Distorting Law' at Democratic Party Meeting... Hardliners Demand No Retreat
The Democratic Party of Korea is considering revisions to the controversial 'Crime of Distorting Law' bill amidst internal dissent and pressure from civic groups before its scheduled discussion in the National Assembly.
The ongoing discussions within the Democratic Party of Korea regarding the 'Crime of Distorting Law' bill highlight significant internal divisions as it is set to be presented in a National Assembly session. This proposed legislation aims to introduce penalties for prosecutors and judges found guilty of 'unlawful distortion of law' during legal proceedings, but it has faced backlash due to its vague definitions, raising concerns over unconstitutionality. Party spokesperson Moon Geum-joo announced that there have been calls for further deliberation from within the party, suggesting potential changes could be on the horizon as various opponents, including civic organizations, voice their disapproval.
Notably, lawmaker Kwak Sang-eon, who has a legal background, expressed strong objections during a party meeting, emphasizing that if the bill remains unchanged, he cannot support it. He pointed out particular articles that may impose severe constraints on judicial practices, fearing that the vague nature of the law could hinder the judiciaryβs ability to interpret existing precedents adequately. With a push for revisions coming from multiple party members, the leadership is weighing the possibility of amendments amidst growing criticism of the billβs constitutionality.
However, there remains a faction within the party advocating for the bill to remain intact. Influential figures, such as Kim Yong-min from the National Assembly's Legislative Judiciary Committee, are vocal about the necessity of handling the bill as originally drafted without concessions to dissenters. As these discussions continue, the future of the bill hangs in the balance, with the potential for last-minute changes developing as the party leadership analyzes the situation before the impending assembly meeting on the 25th.