Seoul: Rival parties intensified their attacks on each other Monday as they weighed the significance of opposition leader Lee Jae-myung's sentence to a suspended prison term. Lee of the main opposition Democratic Party (DP) was found guilty last Friday of making false statements during the 2021-22 presidential campaign as a candidate with the intent of winning the election. The Seoul Central District Court sentenced him to one year in prison, suspended for two years, a ruling that if upheld will strip him of his parliamentary seat and bar him from running in the next presidential election in 2027. According to Yonhap News Agency, during a DP Supreme Council meeting Monday, Lee accused the prosecution of disturbing order in the country by abusing its power, covering up crimes, and unfairly exercising its authority. He suggested that a special counsel should be appointed to uphold the legal processes and order that he claims are being compromised. Lee was referring to his party's push for a special counsel to investigate allegations against first lady Kim Keon Hee, including her alleged involvement in a stock manipulation scheme and interference in party politics. The ruling People Power Party (PPP) called for a swift conclusion to Lee's trials. Lee is also facing trials related to suborning a former mayoral secretary to make false court testimony in his favor, corruption in connection with development projects in Seongnam, and involvement in an illegal cash transfer to North Korea. The ruling on the perjury subornation case is expected next Monday. PPP leader Han Dong-hoon emphasized that the trials should be concluded promptly, citing legal stipulations for appellate and final rulings. PPP floor leader Choo Kyung-ho criticized the DP for participating in protests against the Yoon Suk Yeol administration and for using harsh language to describe the judiciary's actions. He urged the DP to cease what he described as "asphalt politics" and to await the judiciary's judgment responsibly. Choo stressed the importance of accountability and respect for the legal process in addressing the situation.