In a dramatic turn of events, South Korea's court has denied a second request by prosecutors to extend the detention of President Yoon Suk-yeol, multiple media outlets reported on Saturday.
The prosecution's special investigative headquarters submitted the request to the Seoul Central District Court early Saturday, just hours after their first request was rejected on Friday night.
The court ruled that the prosecution lacked the authority to conduct a supplementary investigation into President Yoon's case, which had already been investigated by the anti-corruption agency. According to the court, the prosecution is solely responsible for deciding whether to indict the president.
President Yoon was apprehended at the presidential office on January 15, becoming the nation's first sitting president to be arrested. A warrant allowing his detention for up to 20 days, including the arrest period, was issued by another Seoul court on January 19, marking an unprecedented moment in South Korea's political history.
The prosecution is expected to indict President Yoon on charges of insurrection and other offenses this weekend. The insurrection charge stems from allegations that he declared martial law on the night of December 3 last year, an action that was swiftly revoked by the National Assembly just hours later.
On December 14, the National Assembly passed a motion to impeach President Yoon, which was delivered to the Constitutional Court for deliberation over a period of up to 180 days. During this time, his presidential powers are suspended.
The court's latest decision adds another layer of complexity to South Korea's unfolding political crisis. As the nation grapples with the unprecedented arrest and potential indictment of its leader, all eyes are on the legal proceedings that will shape the country's future.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
