South Korean president ousted after months of protest over corruption claims
SOUTH KOREA’S President Park Geun-hye became the country’s first democratically elected leader to be forced from office yesterday, after judges voted unanimously to impeach her.
The ruling from the highest court in the land follows an earlier impeachment decision by the parliament, and months of mass public protests over her role in a corruption scandal involving close confidante, Choi Soon-sil.
Her dismissal thrusts the country into a rushed 60-day election campaign, leaving Seoul with a leadership vacuum at a time of heightened regional tension over missile tests by volatile neighbouring North Korea.
Audible gasps and cries of joy were heard in the courtroom as the verdict was delivered. Outside on the streets, thousands of police were deployed to prevent clashes between anti-Park protesters and her supporters. According to local reports, two people were killed in clashes between protesters and police.
Ms Park now loses her presidential immunity and can be prosecuted for her alleged collusion with Ms Choi, who has been charged with bribery and corruption for reportedly pressuring big companies to give money in return for political favours.
The ousted president has been accused of taking secret advice from Ms Choi, who had no official position, on everything from North Korea policy to her wardrobe choices.
Prosecutors have recommended a total of 13 charges against the former president, including abuse of power, coercion of donations and the sharing of state secrets.
Both women deny wrongdoing.