In a recent shift in policy stance, Yuichiro Tamaki, the leader of the Democratic Party for the People (DPP), announced the party's willingness to back a proposal banning political donations from companies and organizations, given that it is a collaborative effort put forth by opposition parties. This change in position was revealed during a television program on November 3, as Tamaki highlighted the importance of unity among opposition parties in sponsoring such a bill.
While several opposition parties like the Constitutional Democratic Party of Japan, Nippon Ishin (Japan Innovation Party), and the Japanese Communist Party have been vocal about their support for prohibiting donations from corporations and organizations, the DPP had previously shown hesitation towards this stance. Tamaki emphasized the significance of transparent and timely disclosure in relation to political donations, rather than categorizing them as solely acceptable from individuals or corporations.
The ruling Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) and its coalition partner Komeito have expressed reservations regarding any proposals to outlaw donations from companies and organizations, particularly as this issue gained prominence following a fundraising scandal involving the LDP. Ahead of a special Diet session to be convened on November 11, Tamaki is scheduled to meet with the President of the Constitutional Democratic Party, Yoshihiko Noda, on November 5 to discuss political reforms and potential collaborations among opposition parties. Additionally, the Diet affairs chiefs from various opposition parties, including the DPP, are set to convene for a meeting on the same day to further deliberate on these matters.