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Japan Press Service Co., Ltd. is the only news agency providing information of progressive, democratic movements in Japan

Political freedom for government employees

Progressive trade unions jointly held a rally in Tokyo on February 3, calling for the freedom of political activities by government employees to be established, with 280 people participating.

The rally was called for by the National Confederation of Trade Union (Zenroren) and the Japan Federation of State Employees Unions (Kokko Roren).

Zenroren President Kumagai Kanemichi expressed determination to strengthen the movement toward establishing political rights as well as freedom of conscience for government employees.

Kokko Roren General Secretary Odagawa Yoshikazu said, "The moves seeking criminal penalties for political activities of public employees are spreading among local governments. We must act against such a constraint of freedoms."

Professor Okubo Shiro of Ritsumeikan University Law School said, "It goes against international common sense to restrict political activities of public employees. Their political participation is in the public interest."

Horikoshi Akio, who was prosecuted on the charge of violating the National Public Service Law, reported on his court struggle.
- Akahata, February 4, 2006