Political Fund Scandal Rocks Japan's Ruling Party
The Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) is facing internal turmoil following a political fund scandal that has implicated several high-ranking members. The party's Ethics Committee is expected to announce disciplinary measures against 39 lawmakers on April 4th, with some facing expulsion.
The scandal centers around the practice of keeping fundraising party revenues off the books, a practice that has been ongoing for years within the Abe and Nikai factions. The LDP has decided to punish 36 lawmakers who failed to report 5 million yen ($33,000) or more in revenues from their faction's fundraising parties on their political fund reports over the five years through 2022.
However, discontent is growing within the LDP as Prime Minister Fumio Kishida will not face any disciplinary measures despite his faction's involvement in the scandal. This has led to accusations of double standards and calls for Kishida to be held accountable.
Adding to the controversy, Toshihiro Nikai, a former party secretary-general, will also avoid disciplinary action despite his aide being charged with failing to report 35.26 million yen in fundraising party revenues. This has further fueled criticism of the LDP's handling of the scandal.
The expected disciplinary measures are likely to exacerbate tensions within the LDP, potentially leading to further internal divisions and challenges to Kishida's leadership. The scandal has also damaged the party's public image and could have implications for the upcoming Lower House election.