On April 4, 2025, South Korea’s Constitutional Court unanimously ruled to remove President Yoon Suk Yeol from office, following his controversial attempt to impose martial law. Yoon’s impeachment, which began in December 2023, was triggered by his order to deploy armed soldiers to parliament in an effort to prevent lawmakers from overturning his decree. This act was viewed as a violation of the political neutrality of the armed forces and a subversion of civilian rule.
Yoon, 64, was arrested on insurrection charges related to the martial law declaration, which sparked a national crisis. The court’s decision was seen as a victory for South Korea’s democratic principles, with many in the country cheering the removal of a leader accused of betraying the public’s trust. The court described Yoon’s actions as unconstitutional, illegal, and a serious breach of the law that could not be tolerated.
Yoon’s removal, effective immediately, means that fresh presidential elections will be held within 60 days. The country now faces the challenge of electing a new leader after months of political instability. Following the ruling, Yoon apologized for failing to meet the expectations of the South Korean people.
While opposition party lawmakers celebrated the decision, members of Yoon’s party remained silent or left the courtroom. Yoon, who defended his actions as necessary to root out "anti-state forces," still retains a dedicated base of extreme supporters. Outside his residence, protesters shouted and swore, while some burst into tears after the ruling.
The court’s verdict highlighted the resilience of South Korean democracy, with many experts stating that the nation’s system had withstood one of its most severe challenges. The decision also led to significant market reactions, with the Korean won strengthening against the US dollar and the KOSPI stock index rising.
Yoon now faces a separate criminal trial on charges related to the martial law attempt, and the acting president, Han Duck-soo, will lead the country until the elections take place. The decision underscores that no one, not even the president, is above the law in South Korea.
Politics
Kalonzo Slams Attack on Gachagua at Church, Calls it National Shame
Wiper Party leader Kalonzo Musyoka has condemned the violent attack on former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua during a Sunday church service at PCEA Mwiki in Kasarani.
Gathoni Wamuchomba Summoned Over Anti-Ruto Chants in Kiambu
Githunguri MP Gathoni Wamuchomba has been summoned by police in Kiambu over allegations of inciting anti-Ruto protests.
MPs Ichung’wah, Kiunjuri Heckled During Ruto’s Nyandarua Tour
During President William Ruto’s visit to Nyandarua, MPs Kimani Ichung’wah and Mwangi Kiunjuri faced a hostile reception from the crowd, leading to interruptions in their speeches.
Museveni Appoints Arthur Mugyenyi as New ISO Director General
President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has appointed Arthur Mugyenyi as the new Director General of the Internal Security Organization (ISO), filling the position left vacant after the death of Brig.
South Sudan Denies Sending Raila to Meet VP Machar in Uganda
South Sudan has denied claims that it sent Kenyan opposition leader Raila Odinga to Uganda to meet Vice President Riek Machar.
Ruto Kicks Off Five-Day Tour of Mt Kenya Amid Uncertainty
President William Ruto has begun a five-day tour of the Mt Kenya region, a trip that comes amid mixed expectations.
US Deports 17 Alleged Gang Members to El Salvador Amid Legal Battles
The United States has deported 17 more alleged gang members to El Salvador, despite ongoing legal challenges over the removal process.
Tinubu Says He Nearly Quit 2023 Race Amid Election Pressures
President Bola Tinubu has revealed that he almost withdrew from the 2023 presidential race after facing intense pressure and doubt during his campaign.
Gachagua Tells Mt Kenya Residents to Demand Cash Ahead of Ruto's Tour
Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has urged residents of Mt Kenya to prepare for handouts ahead of President William Ruto’s planned visit to the region.
Parliament Approves GH¢838.3 Million Budget for Audit Service
Ghana’s Parliament has approved a GH¢838,369,865 budget for the Audit Service to support its operations for the 2025 financial year.
Nigerian Lawmakers Push for 60-Year Age Limit on Presidency, Governorship
Reps Propose 60-Year Age Limit for Presidential, Governor Candidates The Nigerian House of Representatives has passed a bill for a second reading that seeks to set a maximum age limit of 60 years for individuals contesting for the positions of president and state governor.
US Calls on South Sudan’s President to Release VP Machar
South Sudan’s Vice President, Riek Machar, is reportedly under house arrest, sparking international concern.
Raila Odinga and Martha Karua Clash Over Broad-Based Government
Raila Odinga and Martha Karua, once running mates, openly disagreed on the broad-based government issue during a funeral service in Tharaka Nithi County, revealing tensions in their political relationship.
Zimbabwe President Fires Army Chief Amid Growing Protests
Zimbabwe President Emmerson Mnangagwa dismissed the country's army chief on Tuesday, a move political analysts see as an effort to strengthen his control over the country.
Myanmar Junta Leader to Attend Regional Summit in Bangkok
Myanmar's military leader, Senior General Min Aung Hlaing, is set to attend a regional summit in Thailand this April.