▲ President Lee Jae-myung speaks during a Cabinet meeting and emergency economic review meeting held at the Blue House on the 23rd.
President Lee Jae-myung has ordered a thorough investigation into the National Election Commission (NEC), which has been embroiled in controversy following the shortage of ballots during the June 3 local elections, calling for a probe not only into the voting process issues but also into internal corruption and irregularities.
During the 27th Cabinet meeting and the 12th emergency economic review meeting held at the Blue House today (June 23), President Lee stated, "There is no excuse for the NEC committing such unthinkable acts while being in a state of being beyond control," adding, "We must do our best from now on to eliminate the various negative elements within the organization."
He then asked, "The problems that occurred during the voting process are important, but aren't there also issues related to corruption and absurd incidents coming to light in that process?"
He emphasized, "It seems that many absurd incidents that the public cannot accept are occurring, such as budget waste, hiring irregularities, and issues in internal operations. I would like for all these issues to be fully investigated if necessary for the probe."
While it is difficult to directly manage or control the NEC, which is an independent constitutional body, this is interpreted as a directive to examine all allegations surrounding the commission, including suspicions that former NEC Chairperson Roh Tae-ak used public funds for an overseas trip with his spouse.
President Lee reiterated, "There is a tendency for the internal operations of the NEC to be lax and lacking vigilance. I believe we must accurately investigate all parts that are legally problematic, uncover the truth, and hold those responsible accountable."
After receiving a report that the joint investigation team of prosecutors and police is currently operating with about 30 members, President Lee also remarked, "It seems we need to increase the size of the team."
(Photo: Yonhap News)
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