South Korea's ruling party to oppose president's impeachment - Media
President of South Korea, Yoon Suk Yeol (photo: Getty Images)
On Thursday, the South Korean parliament proposed impeachment proceedings against President Yoon Suk Yeol over his attempt to introduce martial law in the country. However, his party vowed to oppose the move, questioning the process, reports Reuters.
According to the agency, lawmakers could vote on the proposal as early as Friday. However, for the bill to pass, the opposition Democratic Party, which holds the majority in parliament, needs at least eight members of the ruling party to support the proposal (to reach 200 votes out of a possible 300). However, the ruling party of President Yoon, People Power, has stated it will oppose the move. The party has been divided due to the ongoing crisis in the country.
At the same time, none of the 108 lawmakers from People Power were present during the submission of the impeachment motion. Typically, such a motion opens the way for a vote, which must take place within the next 24-72 hours.
If the impeachment bill is passed, the Constitutional Court of South Korea will have 180 days to decide whether to uphold the decision.
If Yoon is removed from office, the country's Prime Minister, Han Duck-soo, will take over the duties.
Furthermore, if the president, in a dire situation, resigns or is removed from office, new elections will be held within 60 days.
