## Frustration and Anger in Shimane as LDP Faces Headwinds in By-Election
The ruling Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) is facing a tough battle in the upcoming Lower House by-election in the Shimane No. 1 district, traditionally a stronghold for the party. Frustration and anger are mounting among party members as they grapple with the political fund scandal engulfing LDP factions.
Norimasa Nishikori, the LDP candidate for the April 28 by-election, expressed his deep indignation at a recent meeting. "It is a matter of course to handle political funds in accordance with the law," he said. "As the LDP, we should deeply reflect on this issue."
However, the meeting was sparsely attended, and the mood was far from optimistic. Many LDP members believe the association with former speaker Hiroyuki Hosoda, who held the seat for 11 terms, is now more of a liability than an asset. Hosoda faced accusations of sexual harassment and links to the Unification Church, which has been criticized for its fundraising practices.
The CDP is capitalizing on the LDP's woes, campaigning on a platform of breaking free from "politics in which budgets and laws of the country are twisted by the power of money." The party's leader, Kenta Izumi, and secretary-general, Katsuya Okada, have visited the constituency to drum up support for Akiko Kamei, the CDP candidate.
While the LDP remains the frontrunner, with a recent poll showing 22% support compared to the CDP's 6%, the race is tightening. The CDP is experiencing a tailwind, with businesses more receptive to their campaign and the potential support of the Japanese Communist Party.
Political analysts believe the outcome of the Shimane by-election, along with two others scheduled for April 28, could have significant implications for the Kishida administration. The LDP's ability to field candidates in the other two districts is also uncertain, adding to the pressure.
"If we lose in Shimane, it means that the LDP loses all three by-elections," said a senior official of the Nishikori campaign. The stakes are high for the LDP as it seeks to navigate the political storm and maintain its grip on power.