January 20, 2017
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2017 January 18 - 24 [POLITICS]
JCP Koike on Emperor’s abdication issue: Diet discussion fully reflecting public opinion is necessary |
This remark was made at a meeting of secretaries general of all political parties and parliamentary groups which was convened by the Speaker of the House of Representatives and the President of the House of Councilors to hear each party’s opinion regarding how the legislative body should deal with the issue of the Emperor’s abdication. From the JCP, together with Koike, Diet Policy Commission Chair Kokuta Keiji, Lower House member Shiokawa Tetsuya, and Upper House member Nihi Sohei took part in the meeting.
In the meeting, Koike stressed that politicians have a responsibility to carefully address this issue. He pointed out, “Currently, the Emperor has to keep working even at old age. This situation should be revised in consideration of individual dignity.” Koike underscored the need to amend the Imperial Family Law.
Referring to the Japanese Constitution which stipulates that the Emperor derives “his position from the will of the people with whom resides sovereign power”, Koike stressed that national public discussions are essential. Koike stated that the Diet, which is representative of the people, has the responsibility to seriously deliberate the issue.
Regarding how to steer the inter-party meeting, Koike said that discussions should not be solely based on proposals by the Prime Minister’s expert panel on the abdication issue which is already facing fierce criticism. Koike also proposed that a wide range of public opinion be taken into account, that minutes be taken and made public, and that the majority force should refrain from imposing their opinion on the minority force.
Past related article:
> Shii: Abdication of Tennno needs to be discussed [August 9, 2016]
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