The Takaiichi Cabinet is facing scrutiny as various allegations of misconduct involving its ministers have surfaced, putting its morality and leadership to the test.
On September 30, reports from the Japanese weekly magazine 'Shukan Shincho' began to highlight allegations against key ministers in the Takaiichi Cabinet, including claims of budget retaliation by the Minister of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries, Kazuo Yana, and illegal political fundraising by the Minister of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology, Yoshihiro Seki.
On October 17, Yana reportedly stated that he had cut road budgets for local governments that did not support him prior to his appointment. This revelation has sparked significant controversy. On October 13, Yonhap News cited NHK in reporting this incident.
During a budget committee meeting in the House of Representatives on October 13, Yana retracted his statement and apologized, acknowledging its inappropriateness.
Additionally, allegations have emerged that Yana provided free shuttle buses to supporters during his election campaign, raising suspicions of illegal donations. He denied the allegations, claiming it was a humanitarian effort for the elderly, but critics argue that he misused administrative resources by assigning ministry officials to manage his scandal and parliamentary responses.
Meanwhile, Seki has also faced backlash for hosting illegal political fundraising events in the Diet building. He held such events in 2020 and 2024, which are strictly prohibited under House rules. This information was revealed in a report by the Communist Party's organ, 'Akahata.' After a Cabinet meeting on October 13, Seki told reporters, "I did not realize it was prohibited. I lacked understanding."
In response, opposition parties are intensifying their attacks on the government, discussing the possibility of submitting a censure motion against Yana. The Constitutional Democratic Party and the Democratic Party for the People have called Yana's explanations "unacceptable to the public" and are urging his resignation, stating they may submit a censure motion depending on the situation. Makoto Nishida, secretary-general of the Komeito Party, also mentioned that he would consider coordinating with other opposition parties on how to respond.
* This article has been translated by AI.
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