Japan’s main opposition party has taken a stand against Prime Minister Fumio Kishida’s cabinet by submitting a no-confidence motion. This move comes in response to the enactment of a revised political funds control law, which critics argue has not made significant improvements in financial transparency within politics.
The Constitutional Democratic Party of Japan spearheaded the motion, with support expected from other opposition parties. However, it is anticipated to be defeated by the ruling bloc in the House of Representatives, which holds the majority.
The opposition party calls for more substantial changes in the law, including banning corporate donations to political parties, in a bid to restore public trust in politics. This follows a fundraising scandal involving Kishida’s Liberal Democratic Party, which has raised concerns about financial accountability.
Despite the opposition’s objections, the ruling coalition passed the bill in the Diet ahead of the parliamentary session’s conclusion. With Kishida’s cabinet facing declining approval ratings, he has promised to enhance transparency in lawmakers’ spending through revisions in the political funds control law.
While amendments have been made to disclose more information about fundraising party tickets and policy activity funds, the opposition remains unsatisfied with the proposed changes. The focus now shifts to the upcoming LDP presidential race in September, where Kishida’s reelection prospects will be closely watched.
© KYODO