The Democratic Party reaffirmed its commitment to the upcoming reform of the Criminal Procedure Law, stating on July 30 that it aligns with the demand for the separation of investigation and prosecution, emphasizing that the prosecutor and judicial system exist for the people.
Acting Party Leader Han Byeong-do remarked during a policy coordination meeting at the National Assembly, "The Criminal Procedure Law is shedding its outdated framework of 70 years and adopting a new one that guarantees citizens' rights and human rights. This reform will abolish the direct investigative powers of prosecutors while establishing robust mechanisms to oversee police investigations and protect victims."
He added, "The Democratic Party will remain steadfast. This reform follows the era's demand for the separation of investigation and prosecution. We will ensure the smooth passage of the Criminal Procedure Law to facilitate the stable launch of the Public Prosecution Service and the Serious Crimes Investigation Agency. We will meet the public's expectations for a new criminal justice system through thorough preparation and legislation."
Kim Han-kyu, the party's floor policy chief, indicated that the reform bill is poised for passage in the plenary session, stating, "We will clarify that the prosecutor and judicial system exist for the people, and we will move forward."
He also addressed claims of internal disagreements regarding the abolition of supplementary investigative powers, asserting that they are unfounded, saying, "We share a common understanding of the need for prosecutorial reform. I have done my best to gather opinions within the party."
Floor spokesperson Jeon Yong-gi explained, "The investigative powers of the prosecution have served as a shield for the powerful rather than for victims. We now aim to return that shield to the people."
He further stated, "The Democratic Party will ensure the passage of the Criminal Procedure Law in the plenary session, marking the day when, after 78 years, the people become the true masters of the criminal justice system, not the prosecution."
Meanwhile, the Democratic Party announced its intention to prioritize the Criminal Procedure Law reform bill in the plenary session.
After the policy coordination meeting, floor spokesperson Kim Seong-hwa told reporters, "If the People Power Party conducts a filibuster against the Criminal Procedure Law, we will proceed with a vote to end the filibuster on the 31st and then handle the bill."
* This article has been translated by AI.
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