Ahn Chang-ho, chairperson of the National Human Rights Commission of Korea (NHRCK) and former justice of the Constitutional Court, recently critiqued the court in a letter to an international human rights body. His correspondence disputed the court’s examination of President Yoon Suk-yeol’s impeachment, strongly leaning on a decision from commissioners aligned with far-right views, while neglecting dissenting opinions.
The role of the NHRCK should not be to defend a figure linked to insurrection. Ahn’s decision to submit such a controversial letter internationally casts a shadow over Korea’s human rights reputation. When the Global Alliance of National Human Rights Institutions (GANHRI) queried the NHRCK regarding Yoon’s martial law declaration, Ahn responded on February 27, calling the Constitutional Court’s trial unjust, as public confidence in it had waned.
Ahn claimed the trial was flawed due to the admissibility of prosecutors’ interrogation records without Yoon’s approval, asserting impeachment trials should align with the Criminal Procedure Act. However, the Constitutional Court Act clarifies that this act applies only when it does not contradict constitutional adjudication, allowing procedural flexibility in impeachment reviews.
Historically, the court has relaxed these rules during impeachment reviews, including for former President Park Geun-hye, when Ahn supported the removal. His current stance seems to indicate a desire to repay political favors to Yoon.
At a recent meeting, other NHRCK commissioners challenged Ahn’s position, to which he responded ambiguously, asserting he was merely “raising questions” rather than delivering criticisms. Moreover, his past remarks during the impeachment of Park have raised doubts about his qualifications.
Since Ahn’s nomination as NHRCK chair, critiques of his suitability have arisen, signalling the need for him to exhibit professional restraint to uphold the integrity of the NHRCK and his nation’s standing.
Ahn Chang-ho, chair of the NHRCK, has provoked controversy by defending President Yoon Suk-yeol’s impeachment process, accusing the Constitutional Court of unfairness while ignoring dissenting views. His actions appear politically motivated, raising alarms about the NHRCK’s integrity and Korea’s human rights reputation.
Ahn Chang-ho’s recent actions as chairperson of the NHRCK have raised significant concerns regarding the integrity of both the commission and South Korea’s human rights image on the global stage. His critique of the Constitutional Court, based on selective perspectives, highlights not only his apparent bias but also questions the appropriateness of his position. It is imperative for him to demonstrate accountability and a commitment to impartiality to restore faith in the human rights framework.
Original Source: english.hani.co.kr
