constitution

Rally to be held nationwide in opposition to adverse constitutional revision

On May 3, various groups and individuals are planning to hold rallies and demonstrations to mark the 57th anniversary of the enforcement of the war-renouncing Japanese Constitution and express opposition to its adverse revision.

In Tokyo, the 2004 Constitution Rally will be held at Hibiya Public Hall in protest against constitutional revisions and the dispatch of the Self-Defense Forces.

Japanese Communist Party Chair Shii Kazuo and Social Democratic Party Head Fukushima Mizuho will address the rally.

The rally is supported by a wide range of public figures, including scholars, religious leaders, representatives of citizens' groups, actors, lawyers, journalists, film directors, and writers.

At a press conference on April 23, Takada Ken, representative of rally organizers, said, "We will make a success of the rally and create a joint network to stand firm against parties that are trying to prepare drafts for a constitutional revision. (end)