Democratic Party Discusses Necessity of Partial Retention of Supplementary Investigation Authority at General Meeting

Within the Democratic Party, voices opposing the complete abolition of the prosecution's supplementary investigation authority and calling for its partial retention are growing louder. The core of future discussions will center on exactly where to draw the line for exceptions. During the general meeting, Rep. Hong Ki-won introduced a revision to the Criminal Procedure Act separate from the party task force's proposal for complete abolition, suggesting that the authority be maintained only for crimes against socially vulnerable groups and crimes affecting livelihoods.

Fifteen lawmakers spoke during the debate, with 10 expressing a cautious stance regarding complete abolition due to concerns over potential side effects. Rep. Ko Min-jung voiced concerns about potential gaps in investigations regarding sexual violence and child abuse cases. The cautious stance within the party is analyzed as being influenced by the recent expansion of public criticism against the complete abolition of supplementary investigation authority following the 'Gwangju High School Student Murder Case.'

Conversely, Rep. Kim Yong-min criticized Hong's proposal, arguing it could encourage targeted prosecutions by the prosecution, and urged a political decision to abolish the authority. Former Minister Jeong Cheong-rae also expressed concerns regarding the internal party atmosphere, indicating significant opposition remains.

Floor Leader Han Byeong-do announced that the party will continue internal discussions through an expert-invited policy general meeting next week. The Judiciary Subcommittee of the National Assembly Legislation and Judiciary Committee stated it is prepared to review Rep. Hong Ki-won's proposal as early as the 16th.