October 14, 2023

House of Representatives Speaker Hosoda Hiroyuki (Liberal Democratic Party) on October 13 at a press conference held in the Speaker’s House gave ambiguous answers to questions raised by reporters about his connection with the Moonies (former Unification Church) as well as about his sexual harassment scandal, while announcing his decision to resign from his post due to health problems.

Later on this day, Japanese Communist Party Diet Policy Commission Chair Kokuta Keiji in front of reporters criticized Hosoda for showing no willingness to fulfil his accountability to the public.

Kokuta noted that in response to questions from reporters, Hosoda admitted that he had attended Moonies-related meetings eight times and said, “I have no special relations with this organization. I just took part in the meetings by request from the organization.”

Kokuta pointed out that Hosoda has been aware of the facts that former Prime Minister and LDP President Abe Shinzo had close relations with the cult, and that LDP candidates received Moonies’ support for their election campaigns. The JCP lawmaker said that Hosoda’s answers at the press conference were an attempt to cover up these facts.

Kokuta cited that Hosoda showed an attitude of indifference to the government’s request for a court order to dissolve the Unification Church, and said that it is irresponsible of Hosoda to display indifference regarding the enormous damages caused by the Moonies’ lawless acts.

Kokuta stressed the need to summon Hosoda to answer questions about his Moonies ties and sexual harassment scandal before the Diet Steering Committee.

Past related articles:
> Lower House speaker admits, 'I knew about ex-PM Abe's longstanding ties with Moonies' [January 26, 2023]
> Shii: Lower House head Hosoda should be held accountable for his sexual harassment scandal [May 29 & 30, 2022]