Cabinet passes motion requesting parliamentary reconsideration of special probe bill over Marine's death


The Cabinet has given its approval for a motion asking the National Assembly to reconsider a bill that would mandate a special counsel investigation into the military's conduct following the death of a Marine last year. This motion is expected to be endorsed by President Yoon Suk Yeol, marking his 10th veto since assuming office in May 2022. The bill, which was initially passed by the opposition-controlled parliament, seeks to appoint a special counsel to investigate allegations of improper interference by Yoon's office and the defense ministry in the military's inquiry into the death of Cpl. Chae Su-geun during a search mission for flood victims in July 2023. The ruling bloc, including Yoon, has opposed the bill, arguing that the ongoing police and Corruption Investigation Office for High-Ranking Officials investigations should be concluded before considering a special counsel. Prime Minister Han Duck-soo emphasized the need for the executive branch to respect the legislative branch's authority, but expressed concerns about the content and process of the special counsel bill, including the opposition party's unilateral right to recommend candidates for the special prosecutor. The revote in the National Assembly would require a majority of the 300-member parliament to be present, with at least two-thirds of them casting their votes in favor. The main opposition Democratic Party currently holds 155 seats, which could rise to about 180 when combined with splinter parties and independent lawmakers. However, the bill may not succeed in this session unless it garners support from some ruling party lawmakers, as the session is set to expire later this month.


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