Some Tokyo residents urged Japan's newly elected leadership to tackle corruption head-on and take meaningful steps to restore transparency in politics.
Shigeru Ishiba was formally reelected as Japan's prime minister on Monday after a rare runoff vote in parliament. The result has sparked controversy, as Ishiba's party has become embroiled in a widespread corruption scandal involving political fund-raising, which locals refer to as "black money".
"My hometown is close to Prime Minister Ishiba's. So, I have expectations from him. I hope the political 'black money' issue can be resolved transparently and a fresh start can be made. I hope they will do their best," a resident said.
"I think the political 'black money' issue has existed for a long time, and it's difficult to completely uproot it. But if they listen to public opinion and make changes, I think that would be good," said another resident.
"The ruling Liberal Democratic Party has always been vague in handling the political 'black money' issue. However, I hope Prime Minister Ishiba will address such issues sincerely," said another resident.
Others expressed hope that Ishiba will prioritize public welfare and relieve price pressures, emphasizing the need for the cabinet to reduce tax burdens and address declining real wages.
"Ishiba said he would raise taxes. That's why I dislike him. I hope he lowers taxes and invests more to make the country prosperous," said a resident.
"I opened the news website and saw the result, and thought, 'Well, it's the same no matter who is elected. Honestly, it's a bit disappointing. I want the consumption tax reduced, preferably to zero. Because income has decreased, and life is tough. I'm nearly 50 years old, and my income has significantly decreased, which is truly disheartening," said another resident.
Japanese residents call for clean politics, tax reductions after PM's reelection
