South Korea’s ruling party has vowed to block an impeachment attempt against President Yoon Suk Yeol by the opposition, citing the need for unity in rejecting the motion. The opposition needs the support of ruling party lawmakers to pass the impeachment bill, with a vote expected on Saturday.
Prosecutors have opened an investigation into President Yoon, his interior minister, and former defence minister over their involvement in imposing martial law, which was quickly rescinded after facing strong opposition from parliamentarians and public backlash.
The decision to declare martial law plunged the country into political turmoil, with conflicting reports emerging about who was aware of the plan beforehand. Yoon has attempted to contain the fallout by accepting the resignation of his defence minister and apologizing for the confusion caused by his actions.
The US has criticized Yoon for his misjudgment in declaring martial law, which took the White House by surprise. If the impeachment bill passes, South Korea’s constitutional court will decide whether to uphold the motion.
Yoon’s controversial actions have sparked protests in Seoul, with calls for his immediate suspension and a new election if he is removed from office. The situation remains volatile as the country grapples with the aftermath of Yoon’s attempt to impose martial law and the resulting political crisis.
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