Japan Press Weekly

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2020 September 16 - 29 [POLITICS]

Shii expresses his determination to squarely confront Suga-led LDP adherence to neoliberalism

The Japanese Communist Party held its Dietmembers’ general meeting on September 16, the opening day of the extraordinary Diet session (September 16-18). Chair Shii Kazuo expressed his determination to squarely confront the new Liberal Democratic Party President Suga Yoshihide who is determined to stick to neoliberalism and the continuation of the Abe government policies.

Shii pointed out that the need now is for Japan’s politics to put an end to the Abe policies, and called on JCP lawmakers in both Houses to work hard to achieve this in the next general election.

Shii criticized newly-elected LDP leader Suga’s political position requiring the general public to seek self-help and mutual-help rather than public-help. He said, “Self-help and mutual-help should not be imposed by politicians. The role politics should play in daily life is to protect and better people’s livelihoods and quality of living.”

Shii pointed out that the corona crisis shed light on the collapse of neoliberal politics pressing for individual self-reliance and responsibility. Shii added that a choice between the promotion of failed policies and creating a fundamental shift from the current direction in politics has emerged as the axis of confrontation steering Japan’s future course.

Furthermore, Shii cited the fact that the Constitutional Democratic Party of Japan and other opposition parties began stressing the need to get rid of neoliberal politics, and said, “Let us work together with them to put an end to this political direction and build a government which will carry out its primary duty of defending and improving people’s livelihoods.”

Shii in conclusion pointed out that Suga’s policy line will surely reach an impasse unless Suga abandons the continuation of his predecessor’s policy positions and runaway neoliberal policies. He said, “With a snap general election in mind, let’s work even harder to win a victory of the opposition parties’ alliance and achieve the party’s progress in the election.”

Past related article:
> Shii comments on Suga’s election as LDP president [September 15, 2020]