In a dramatic turn of events, South Korea’s opposition parties have submitted a motion to impeach President Yoon Suk-yeol following his unexpected declaration of emergency martial law. The declaration, issued late Tuesday night, was lifted early Wednesday after the National Assembly voted against it.
A coalition of 191 lawmakers from the main liberal opposition Democratic Party and five smaller opposition parties proposed the motion on Wednesday, aiming to oust President Yoon from office. The move signifies a significant escalation in the political tensions that have been simmering in the country.
The opposition parties plan to report the motion to a plenary session on Thursday, with a vote expected to take place between Friday and Saturday, according to local media reports. Under South Korean law, the 300-member unicameral parliament is required to hold a secret vote on an impeachment motion within 72 hours after it is introduced to the plenary session.
The South Korean constitution stipulates that an impeachment motion must be initiated by a majority of lawmakers and approved by at least two-thirds of the National Assembly members. Should the motion secure more than 200 votes in favor, the constitutional court will undertake a deliberation process lasting up to 180 days, during which President Yoon would be suspended from his duties.
The political upheaval comes after President Yoon’s declaration of martial law, a measure typically reserved for times of war or severe national emergency. The move was met with swift opposition from lawmakers and civil society groups, who questioned the necessity and legality of such drastic action.
This unfolding situation has gripped the nation and piqued the interest of international observers, raising concerns about the stability of South Korea’s democratic institutions. Business leaders and investors are closely monitoring developments, given potential implications for the country’s economy and regional relations.
As the impeachment process advances, all eyes will be on the South Korean National Assembly and the constitutional court’s subsequent deliberations. The outcome could have profound effects on the nation’s political landscape and its role in regional affairs.
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South Korean opposition parties submit motion to impeach president
cgtn.com
