▲ President Lee Jae-myung
President Lee Jae-myung has ordered a thorough investigation into the National Election Commission (NEC), which has been embroiled in controversy following a shortage of ballots during the June 3 local elections, calling for a probe not only into the voting process but also into internal corruption.
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 to have committed such inexcusable acts while operating in an uncontrollable state," adding, "We must do our best from now on to eliminate the various negative elements within the organization."
He further questioned, "The issues that occurred during the voting process are important, but aren't there also matters of corruption and absurd incidents being revealed 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 of 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 Noh Tae-ak used public funds for an overseas trip with his spouse.
President Lee reiterated, "The internal organization has been operating in a lax manner without a sense of vigilance. We must accurately investigate and uncover all parts that are legally problematic and hold those responsible accountable."
After receiving a report that the joint prosecution-police investigation team is currently operating with about 30 personnel, President Lee also remarked, "It seems we need to increase the size of the team."
(Photo: Yonhap News)
※ Please note: This article was translated by AI and may contain errors.