Japan’s Diet concluded its session with Prime Minister Fumio Kishida facing reelection challenges within his ruling party amid a political funding scandal. Despite passing key bills, including reforms to funding rules, the Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) under Kishida’s leadership has been under scrutiny for alleged income misreporting.
Kishida defended the revised political funds control law as a step towards transparency and rebuilding public trust in politics. However, opposition arose over lower reporting thresholds for fundraising event attendees. The new law, effective from 2027, has drawn criticism for potentially maintaining the status quo of money collection practices.
Amid cabinet approval rating lows, Kishida’s position has further weakened due to internal dissent within the LDP and electoral setbacks. Despite calls for dissolution from opposition parties, Kishida aims for long-term governance.
While session bills, including security clearance and child welfare measures, passed, contentious topics like constitutional amendments and imperial succession remained unresolved. Overall, Japan’s political landscape remains turbulent, with Kishida facing challenges to secure his leadership.
© KYODO