President Lee: Election Fraud Claims Are Anti-Social, Demand Legal Accountability

President Lee Jae-myung strongly criticized the spread of election fraud theories, calling such claims an "anti-social behavior" that distorts the truth and insults the public's voice. Speaking during a video conference with senior aides from Europe, where he is on an overseas trip, Lee expressed bewilderment at the situation, emphasizing that the right to vote is fundamental to democracy.

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Spreading theories about election result manipulation and election fraud is an anti-social behavior that distorts the essence of this issue and insults the precious voices of the people.

The president acknowledged legitimate concerns regarding the election process but condemned the incitement of "baseless conspiracy theories" by certain groups. He stated that the election commission's "unforgivable mismanagement" of the vote has cast a shadow on South Korea's national prestige, particularly as the nation promotes its cultural and industrial achievements.

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I am truly bewildered and taken aback by how such a situation has unfolded.

Lee directed authorities to take firm action against individuals promoting election fraud narratives, especially those who threaten police officers, intimidate citizens, or obstruct official duties. He stressed the importance of upholding the law and principles, urging that the infringement of suffrage be turned into an opportunity to strengthen democracy through healthy criticism and constructive proposals. A thorough and transparent investigation into the facts is crucial, he added.

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Those who spread these (election fraud) claims, some of them even inflict harm on field police officers, threaten surrounding citizens, and sometimes engage in inexplicable searches and inspections, obstructing work.

Both the ruling Democratic Party and the main opposition People Power Party are preparing for a parliamentary investigation into the election commission's handling of the vote. Discussions are underway regarding the investigation's duration and scope. The Democratic Party aims to pass the investigation plan this week, while the People Power Party also agrees on the necessity of a swift inquiry. Disagreements persist over the committee's composition, with the Democratic Party advocating for a ratio based on parliamentary seats and the People Power Party pushing for an equal number of members from both sides.

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We must hold them accountable under the law and principles.