Citizens' Coalition for Economic Justice "Understands the Intent of a Special Treason Trial Court, but Concerned About Undermining Judicial Independence"

Citizens' Coalition for Economic Justice [Yonhap News photo]

The Citizens' Coalition for Economic Justice (CCEJ) expressed concern that the ruling party's push to establish a special treason trial court poses a significant risk of undermining judicial independence.

In a statement released on the 16th, the CCEJ stated, "We deeply sympathize with the public's demand for fairness and trust in treason trials," but argued that "special trial courts require restraint and caution as they can shake the principle of judicial independence."

The CCEJ pointed out, "Article 101 of the Constitution stipulates that 'judicial power belongs to the courts,' and Article 103 states that 'judges shall judge independently according to their conscience, based on the Constitution and laws.' It is difficult to avoid constitutional controversy when an external body intervenes in the selection of judges and establishes a dedicated trial court for specific cases."

They added, "If courts not envisioned by the Constitution are repeatedly established, it could actually erode trust in the judiciary."

The CCEJ emphasized, "Democracy is not completed by the will of the majority alone. The courts are a mechanism to check the unchecked power of the majority and protect the rights and fundamental rights of minorities."

Furthermore, they expressed concern that "the establishment of special trial courts could also lead to political controversy."

The CCEJ argued, "Introducing special trial courts for sensitive matters such as the treason case of former presidents will inevitably lead to controversy over political bias. This system is dangerous as it could be abused in other political cases if it sets a precedent."

They urged the Democratic Party of Korea to "demonstrate restraint and lead the way in ending treason, while approaching the issue in a way that respects judicial independence and constitutional integrity."

They added, "We must strive to ensure fairness and trust through institutional measures such as respecting the continuity and procedural justice of ongoing trials, and specifically by expanding trial openness and transparency, and including the unanimous opinions of judges in rulings." Yonhap News