The proposal, led by the main opposition Democratic Party, passed the Legislation and Judiciary Committee and is expected to be put to a vote during a plenary session on Tuesday.
Unlike a regular special counsel bill, an investigation by a permanent independent prosecutor does not require the president's approval.
Also included among those for investigation were Prime Minister Han Duck-soo, Choo Kyung-ho, the floor leader of the ruling People Power Party (PPP), and Yeo In-hyeong, the head of the army's Defense Counterintelligence Command who was allegedly implicated in orchestrating Yoon's martial law order.
The DP argued that the scope of the investigation should be expanded to include them in the probe, as they are suspected of having either collaborated on or plotted last Tuesday's botched plan.
It also submitted another motion to investigate first lady Kim Keon Hee over a dozen allegations including a stock manipulation scheme, alleged involvement in the PPP's candidate nomination process ahead of the general elections last April, the acceptance of a luxury handbag, and several other accusations.
The motion, which is expected to be put to a vote on Thursday, comes as the fourth attempt of its kind, after it was dropped last Saturday for falling short of the required two-thirds majority by just two votes.
reporter
Kim Joo-heon
jhkim123@ajunews.com
Copyright ⓒ Aju Press All rights reserved.
