An opposition-tabled bill mandating a special counsel investigation into allegations against first lady Kim Keon-hee has passed a parliamentary subcommittee.

The opposition-strong subcommittee under the Legislation and Judiciary Committee approved the bill with a show of hands Tuesday, amid protests from representatives of the ruling People Power Party.

The bill, put forth by the main opposition Democratic Party for the third time after two presidential vetoes, also seeks to examine accusations that the first lady meddled in election nominations.

The ruling party lawmakers on the committee argued that the bill is unjust as it is based on allegations raised by the media, rather than on specific evidence.

The bill is expected to pass the standing committee on Friday and gain approval in a plenary vote on November 14.