The Need for Accountability
By Michael Stevens
Even as I write this I feel remorse for the untimely death of former President Roh Moo-hyun and want to send my heartfelt condolences to his family and those that supported him.
I continue to pray for them so that they may continue to grow in strength during these distressing times in their lives.
While I didn't personally agree with many of Roh's policies, I find it regrettable that he felt he had to end his life so tragically, leaving his family and friends to face the consequences of their actions during his tenure as President.
Despite all his shortcomings, as a political leader ― the courage former President Roh showed in the face of a once brutal authoritarian regime during his youth should be remembered.
Plus, fighting against human rights violations and social injustices through his political career ― these alone could easily have amounted to a lifetime's worth of achievements for anyone.
Furthermore, in my opinion his lifetime of service to this country should have also warranted him any clemency he may have needed ― for any mistakes in judgment he may have had during his presidency.
Yet, this clemency should not be transferred to those that he considered his friends and those he trusted such as his family members that may have used Roh's notoriety and position to line their pockets.
Just after the death of Roh it was reported that prosecutors would suspend their current investigation. However, one can only hope that this decision is only temporary in order to pay respect to his memory.
While I agree it may seem pretty heartless to many for the Lee administration to continue to investigate Roh's family members during their time of grief. Nevertheless, I feel it would be foolish to end this investigation completely ― given that there will be plenty of time for the truth to be revealed later.
It is important that at some point the truth be exposed in order to root out any possible corruption in both the public and private sectors.
Furthermore, no one should profit from another man's suicide, which would undoubtedly happen if this investigation were called off. President Lee Myung-bak has stated that his administration would be characterized by rule of law and transparency.
These clearly are noble causes in a country that has so long been plagued with the image of corruption and underhanded business practices.
The need for accountability in this country and for the Korean people is vital in order to achieve a system of structure in a messy and chaotic world, and as it stands now there are insufficient checks in both the judicial and executive branches of the Korean government at all levels ― this cannot be allowed to persist in a democratic society.
Korea is considering a set of reforms that are part of a worldwide trend for better governance. These reforms arguably include an open government policy based on transparency, accessibility and responsibility. However, this will take long-term commitment and perseverance.
This is what makes this ongoing investigation so vital ― since it shows the Korean people that no one is above the rule of law ― including presidents and their inner circle. Also, by letting bribing of government officials continue unchecked there are strong economic costs in terms of efficiency and effectiveness.
Reforms in Korea in the past were much more symbolic rather than real. This has caused increasing discontent and has drawn much criticism among Korean citizens about their lack of trust in the government sector.
Yet, when you talk about trust, you have to talk about accountability since this is its cornerstone.
Michael Stevens is a student of biblical studies residing in Guri, Gyeonggi Province. He can be reached at eslcity@gmail.com.