After Shinzo Abe's assassination in July exposed tight ties between the Unification Church and politicians from the ruling party, Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida announced an investigation into the organisation on Monday.&nbsp;

As a result of mounting resentment that members of his Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) did not properly disclose their connections to the church, support for Kishida's government has fallen to its lowest point since he took office a year ago.&nbsp;

Now, he has instructed the culture minister to prepare an investigation into the church under the Religious Corporations Act. Kishida told parliament: "I want to resolve issues related to the church."&nbsp;

But he refrained from commenting on when it would end. He said: "The government will clarify the situation, offer relief measures to the victims and take steps to prevent a similar situation happening again."&nbsp;

Kishida expressed regret over the reports that many LDP members had connections to the religion, which he claimed damaged public confidence in the government.&nbsp;

He also stated he was "taking seriously" claims that the organisation had left many of its adherents destitute, frequently with their families in disarray.&nbsp;

Hiroshi Yamaguchi, a lawyer who has worked on cases against the church, claims that in order to draw members and achieve credibility, the church developed relationships with Japanese politicians.&nbsp;

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After Shinzo Abe's assassination in July exposed tight ties between the Unification Church and politicians from the ruling party, Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida announced an investigation into the organisation on Monday.

After Shinzo Abe's assassination in July exposed tight ties between the Unification Church and politicians from the ruling party, Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida announced an investigation into the organisation on Monday. As a result of mounting resentment that members of his Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) did not properly disclose their connections to the church, support for Kishida's government has fallen to its lowest point since he took office a year ago. Now, he has instructed the culture minister to prepare an investigation into the church under the Religious Corporations Act. Kishida told parliament: "I want to resolve issues related to the church." But he refrained from commenting on when it would end. He said: "The government will clarify the situation, offer relief measures to the victims and take steps to prevent a similar situation happening again." Kishida expressed regret over the reports that many LDP members had connections to the religion, which he claimed damaged public confidence in the government. He also stated he was "taking seriously" claims that the organisation had left many of its adherents destitute, frequently with their families in disarray. Hiroshi Yamaguchi, a lawyer who has worked on cases against the church, claims that in order to draw members and achieve credibility, the church developed relationships with Japanese politicians. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Japan PM Fumio Kishida orders probe into Unification Church links to ruling party members

Tensions have flared up in the Korean peninsula after South Korea launches a six-day joint military exercise with US & Japan. The move has angered North Korea.

Will North Korea retaliate? South Korea launches defence drills as tensions flare up

Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida is mulling launching an investigation into the Unification Church which has come under fire, ever since the assassination of former PM Shinzo Abe.

Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida is mulling launching an investigation into the Unification Church which has come under fire, ever since the assassination of former PM Shinzo Abe. Reportedly, Kisida is expected to table the proposal on Monday during a session of the House of Representatives Budget Committee. Notably, the change in attitude from Kishida comes in the backdrop of his approval rating taking a deep dive in recent months for failing to address the issue. As reported by WION, in September, Kishida's support fell to 32.3 per cent from 44.3 per cent a month before, according to the survey by Jiji news agency conducted at the weekend The 'Unification Church' has become Kishida's Achilles heel and it only became more grave when a man set himself on fire in protest of the state funeral. Critics in Japan have called the church a cult that exercises tremendous sway over politicians especially the Liberal Democratic Party (LDP). A recent survey found that half of LDP lawmakers have ties with the group in terms of receiving political support or donations, or attending events. WATCH | Unification Church in Japan accepts it took huge donation from Shinzo Abe shooting suspect's mother × Abe's assassin is believed to have resented the sect over massive donations his mother made to the church, leaving the family bankrupt. The organisation, which was started in South Korea in the 1950s by self-declared messiah Sun Myung Moon and is well-known for its mass weddings, has come under fire for its fundraising practises and other problems. Such ideas are rejected by the church, which asserts that it is a valid religious movement. Read more: Unification Church in Japan pledges donation reforms after Shinzo Abe’s assassination (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Japanese PM mulls launching investigation into Unification Church

A move towards greater liberty for women, Japan is all set to scrap its remarriage restrictions on pregnant women. The country's cabinet ministers have approved the repealing of a regressive law which stated that if a woman is pregnant at the time of divorce, she has to wait for 100 days before marrying again.

Japanese cabinet ministers approve the scrapping of discriminatory law

The Japanese cabinet ministers on Friday (October 14) approved repealing a law that requires a pregnant woman seeking a divorce to wait for at least 100 days before marrying again.&nbsp;

Set out over 100 years ago, several critics campaigned for its repeal, which for six months prior to its revision in 2016 prohibited remarriage, AFP reported.

The law was designed to make it easier to identify the father of the child, who will be legally responsible for the finances of the infant.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/nepals-citizenship-bill-is-it-gender-discriminatory-510480">Also read |&nbsp;Nepal's citizenship bill: Is it gender discriminatory?</a>

According to the local media, the administration will present the updated civil code to the current legislative session, which ends on December 10 this year. If approved, the amendment is predicted to take effect in the year 2024, AFP reported.&nbsp;

The new law will also take away parents' right to discipline their children to the necessary extent.

Two years ago, the government delayed a two-decade-old rule that aimed for nearly 30 per cent of the top businesses in industry and politics to be held by women.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-colorado-baker-fights-ruling-over-gender-transition-cake-522872">Also read |&nbsp;US: Colorado baker fights ruling over gender transition cake</a>

Despite being one of the most advanced in science and technology, as per the World Economic Forum's annual Global Gender study, Japan stood at 116th place out of 146 nations in the year 2022.&nbsp;

The report considers political empowerment along with health, education, and economic engagement. The country is currently lagging behind in bridging the gender gap.

To improve the situation, the country is making efforts as per the new five-year strategy. Efforts were made to reach this goal by the year 2030.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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The Japanese cabinet ministers on Friday (October 14) approved repealing a law that requires a pregnant woman seeking a divorce to wait for at least 100 days before marrying again.

The Japanese cabinet ministers on Friday (October 14) approved repealing a law that requires a pregnant woman seeking a divorce to wait for at least 100 days before marrying again. Set out over 100 years ago, several critics campaigned for its repeal, which for six months prior to its revision in 2016 prohibited remarriage, AFP reported. The law was designed to make it easier to identify the father of the child, who will be legally responsible for the finances of the infant. Also read | Nepal's citizenship bill: Is it gender discriminatory? According to the local media, the administration will present the updated civil code to the current legislative session, which ends on December 10 this year. If approved, the amendment is predicted to take effect in the year 2024, AFP reported. The new law will also take away parents' right to discipline their children to the necessary extent. Two years ago, the government delayed a two-decade-old rule that aimed for nearly 30 per cent of the top businesses in industry and politics to be held by women. Also read | US: Colorado baker fights ruling over gender transition cake Despite being one of the most advanced in science and technology, as per the World Economic Forum's annual Global Gender study, Japan stood at 116th place out of 146 nations in the year 2022. The report considers political empowerment along with health, education, and economic engagement. The country is currently lagging behind in bridging the gender gap. To improve the situation, the country is making efforts as per the new five-year strategy. Efforts were made to reach this goal by the year 2030. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Japan to repeal 'discriminatory' law restricting remarriage of pregnant women

Japan's space agency revealed that on Wednesday (October 12) it had to send a self-destruct instruction to its Epsilon rocket after a failed launch. The rocket was found to be unsafe to fly. &nbsp;

The country's public broadcaster NHK and other local media reported that the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) admitted that a problem had been discovered.&nbsp;

NHK also said that it was the first failure of a major Japanese rocket launch since 2003, and the first of the Epsilon series of rockets.&nbsp;

With Epsilon, Japan was to launch a variety of technology-demonstrating payloads to orbit and the mission was called Innovative Satellite Technology Demonstration 3. This was Japan's first orbital liftoff of 2022.&nbsp;

Epsilon was flying RAISE 3 (Rapid Innovative payload demonstration Satellite 3), which is a roughly 100 kilograms spacecraft. It was carrying seven separate technologies that were supposed to get a test in Earth orbit.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/dart-mission-altered-the-orbital-path-of-the-asteroid-confirms-nasa-524603">DART mission altered the orbital path of the asteroid, confirms NASA</a>&nbsp;

The space agency had also provided a live stream of the launch from Uchinoura Space Center in the southern Kagoshima region but it was interrupted. Without giving any details, the presenters said that some problems have occurred.&nbsp;

Notably, the solid-fuel Epsilon rocket has been successfully launched five times. It has been in service since 2013. On being compared with other similar rockets, the Epsilon rocket is smaller than the country's previous liquid-fuelled model. Also, it is a successor to Japan's solid-fuel M-5 rocket which was retired in 2006 due to its high cost.&nbsp;

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Japan's space agency revealed that on Wednesday (October 12) it had to send a self-destruct instruction to its Epsilon rocket after a failed launch. The rocket was found to be unsafe to fly.

Japan's space agency revealed that on Wednesday (October 12) it had to send a self-destruct instruction to its Epsilon rocket after a failed launch. The rocket was found to be unsafe to fly. The country's public broadcaster NHK and other local media reported that the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) admitted that a problem had been discovered. NHK also said that it was the first failure of a major Japanese rocket launch since 2003, and the first of the Epsilon series of rockets. With Epsilon, Japan was to launch a variety of technology-demonstrating payloads to orbit and the mission was called Innovative Satellite Technology Demonstration 3. This was Japan's first orbital liftoff of 2022. Epsilon was flying RAISE 3 (Rapid Innovative payload demonstration Satellite 3), which is a roughly 100 kilograms spacecraft. It was carrying seven separate technologies that were supposed to get a test in Earth orbit. ALSO READ | DART mission altered the orbital path of the asteroid, confirms NASA The space agency had also provided a live stream of the launch from Uchinoura Space Center in the southern Kagoshima region but it was interrupted. Without giving any details, the presenters said that some problems have occurred. Notably, the solid-fuel Epsilon rocket has been successfully launched five times. It has been in service since 2013. On being compared with other similar rockets, the Epsilon rocket is smaller than the country's previous liquid-fuelled model. Also, it is a successor to Japan's solid-fuel M-5 rocket which was retired in 2006 due to its high cost. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Japan instructs its space rocket to self-destruct after failed launch

Japan has reopened its doors to tourists after two-and-a-half years of tough Covid-19 restrictions, with officials hoping an influx of travellers enticed by a weak yen will boost the economy.

Tourists return to Japan after more than two years of pandemic isolation

Japan fully reopens to tourists after two years of COVID-19 restrictions. However, shuttered shops and a shortage of hospitality workers threaten the country's hopes for a tourism boom.

Japan reopens borders after two years of pandemic isolation

From tourists flocking to Japan to the 80th birthday of Bollywood actor Amitabh Bachchan, here are some impactful images from around the world on 11 October, 2022.

World in Pictures: Tourists flock to Japan; 80th birthday of Bollywood actor Amitabh Bachchan

Japan reopens for tourists after two-and-a-half years of Covid restrictions

On Tuesday, the system to register same-sex partnerships opened for applications in Japan’s capital city, Tokyo, said local media reports. This step is largely symbolic since it does not offer the legal benefits of marriage to the LGBTQ community in the country but it is welcomed by rights groups as a small step in the right direction nevertheless.&nbsp;

“The introduction of the system in Tokyo is extremely positive…But partnership is not enough. We basically want legal marriage,” said Soshi Matsuoka, the head of Fair, an LGBTQ rights organization in Tokyo, to the local media. Notably, Japan is the only country in the Group of Seven (G7) major democracies that does not allow same-sex marriage or civil unions. However, several polls have reportedly indicated that people are largely in favour of same-sex unions.

According to the Tokyo Metropolitan Government’s website, the system is open for couples of whom at least one partner lives, works or studies in the country’s capital city. The couple must be at least 18 years old and not already married or in a partnership. The website also indicated that the applications must be online, the certificates for which will be available from November 1.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/japan-at-turning-point-for-lgbtq-rights-campaigners-390341">Japan at 'turning point' for LGBTQ rights: Campaigners</a>

Local government partnership certification systems have already been introduced in several municipalities across Japan. However, since Tokyo accounts for more than 10% of the country’s population (125 million) its change in policies has a larger impact, said media reports.&nbsp;

Japan has an ageing as well as a shrinking population and the lack of provisions like same-sex marriages, it could adversely affect the country’s ability to compete for talent against dozens of countries who have legalised marriage equality, said industry bodies. However, incumbent Prime Minister Fumio Kishida, leader of the conservative, Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) has reportedly urged caution on the issue.&nbsp;

While the general public attitudes have been increasingly positive in recent years, some conservative lawmakers are not entirely on board. Earlier this month, an LDP assemblyman in Aichi Prefecture, Noboru Watanabe, was forced to issue an apology following an online post, where he called same-sex marriage “disgusting”, said the local media.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/japan-in-major-blow-to-lgbtq-rights-court-rules-same-sex-marriage-ban-is-not-unconstitutional-489900">Japan: In major blow to LGBTQ rights, court rules same-sex marriage ban is not unconstitutional</a>

Meanwhile, there have been a series of legal cases challenging Japan’s stance of not recognising same-sex marriage. Earlier this year, in March, marked a partial win for the LGBTQ community in the country with a Japanese court ruling that not allowing same-sex couples to get married is “unconstitutional”, which set a precedent for the right in the future.&nbsp;

However, the victory was short-lived as another court in Osaka ruled against the marriage equality right in the month of June. Furthermore, last month in another court ruling the US-national same-sex spouse of a Japanese citizen was refused residency rights and said it was unconstitutional, reported the media, saying that the two had gotten married in the US.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

&nbsp;

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On Tuesday, the system to register same-sex partnerships opened for applications in Japan’s capital city, Tokyo, said local media reports. This step is largely symbolic since it does not offer the legal benefits of marriage to the LGBTQ community in the country but it is welcomed by rights groups as a small step in the right direction nevertheless.

On Tuesday, the system to register same-sex partnerships opened for applications in Japan’s capital city, Tokyo, said local media reports. This step is largely symbolic since it does not offer the legal benefits of marriage to the LGBTQ community in the country but it is welcomed by rights groups as a small step in the right direction nevertheless. “The introduction of the system in Tokyo is extremely positive…But partnership is not enough. We basically want legal marriage,” said Soshi Matsuoka, the head of Fair, an LGBTQ rights organization in Tokyo, to the local media. Notably, Japan is the only country in the Group of Seven (G7) major democracies that does not allow same-sex marriage or civil unions. However, several polls have reportedly indicated that people are largely in favour of same-sex unions. According to the Tokyo Metropolitan Government’s website, the system is open for couples of whom at least one partner lives, works or studies in the country’s capital city. The couple must be at least 18 years old and not already married or in a partnership. The website also indicated that the applications must be online, the certificates for which will be available from November 1. ALSO READ: Japan at 'turning point' for LGBTQ rights: Campaigners Local government partnership certification systems have already been introduced in several municipalities across Japan. However, since Tokyo accounts for more than 10% of the country’s population (125 million) its change in policies has a larger impact, said media reports. Japan has an ageing as well as a shrinking population and the lack of provisions like same-sex marriages, it could adversely affect the country’s ability to compete for talent against dozens of countries who have legalised marriage equality, said industry bodies. However, incumbent Prime Minister Fumio Kishida, leader of the conservative, Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) has reportedly urged caution on the issue. While the general public attitudes have been increasingly positive in recent years, some conservative lawmakers are not entirely on board. Earlier this month, an LDP assemblyman in Aichi Prefecture, Noboru Watanabe, was forced to issue an apology following an online post, where he called same-sex marriage “disgusting”, said the local media. ALSO READ: Japan: In major blow to LGBTQ rights, court rules same-sex marriage ban is not unconstitutional Meanwhile, there have been a series of legal cases challenging Japan’s stance of not recognising same-sex marriage. Earlier this year, in March, marked a partial win for the LGBTQ community in the country with a Japanese court ruling that not allowing same-sex couples to get married is “unconstitutional”, which set a precedent for the right in the future. However, the victory was short-lived as another court in Osaka ruled against the marriage equality right in the month of June. Furthermore, last month in another court ruling the US-national same-sex spouse of a Japanese citizen was refused residency rights and said it was unconstitutional, reported the media, saying that the two had gotten married in the US. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Japan: Tokyo opens applications for same-sex partnership system

Japan throws open its doors to visitors this week after more than two years of pandemic isolation with hopes for a tourism boom face tough headwinds amid shuttered shops and a shortage of hospitality workers.

World Business Watch: Japan to reinstate Visa-free travel to dozens of countries after two years

North Korea said that its recent missile drills were a simulation for launching nuclear strikes on the South. A UN report claims North Korea is at the final stage of preparations to test nuclear weapons. Priyanka Sharma tells you what's happening in North Korea.

WION Fineprint | North Korea is readying itself for a nuclear test: UN Report

North Korea has fired missiles for the 7th time in two weeks as part of its “military drills”. But the North’s recent missiles were loaded with something far more concerning...

North Korea tested nuclear warheads?

The Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida's government approval ratings have fallen due to the party's link with Unification Church and this comes after the government has failed to manage the inflation. Kishida's cabinet witnessed a fall in the support from 40% to 35%, which is the lowest.

Unification Church connection batters Fumio Kishida

There are simmering tensions in the Japan region as North Korea fired two ballistic missiles outside Japan's exclusive economic zone, making it their seventh launch. Toshiro Ino, Japan's Defence Minister, said "These actions by North Korea are a threat to peace and security of our country, region and the international community."

North Korean missile falls outside Japan's exclusive economic zone; Japan's Defence Minister reacts

In light of North Korea's ongoing missile launches, the United States and Japan are conducting a combined military exercise with the American aircraft carrier Ronald Reagan in the vicinity of Japan, the Japanese defence ministry announced on Saturday.&nbsp;

On Thursday, North Korea launched two short-range ballistic missiles into the ocean with Japan as their target. The launch was the first since Pyongyang flew an intermediate-range missile over Japan on Tuesday and the sixth in the past 12 days.

"Amid an increasingly severe security environment surrounding Japan, including North Korea's repeated ballistic missile launches, Japan Self-Defence Forces and U.S. Armed Forces have been conducting a bilateral exercise," the ministry said in a statement.

The combined exercise, in which a Japanese destroyer is taking part, has been going on since October 1st, according to the announcement. It was unclear when it was supposed to end.&nbsp;

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This week, joint drills between the United States and South Korea were conducted.&nbsp;

According to a statement from North Korea's state media KCNA on Saturday, the defence ministry was "taking a stern look at the development of the current situation, which is very worrisome," about the US-South Korean drills.

(with inputs from agencies)

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In light of North Korea's ongoing missile launches, the United States and Japan are conducting a combined military exercise with the American aircraft carrier Ronald Reagan in the vicinity of Japan, the Japanese defence ministry announced on Saturday.

In light of North Korea's ongoing missile launches, the United States and Japan are conducting a combined military exercise with the American aircraft carrier Ronald Reagan in the vicinity of Japan, the Japanese defence ministry announced on Saturday. On Thursday, North Korea launched two short-range ballistic missiles into the ocean with Japan as their target. The launch was the first since Pyongyang flew an intermediate-range missile over Japan on Tuesday and the sixth in the past 12 days. "Amid an increasingly severe security environment surrounding Japan, including North Korea's repeated ballistic missile launches, Japan Self-Defence Forces and U.S. Armed Forces have been conducting a bilateral exercise," the ministry said in a statement. The combined exercise, in which a Japanese destroyer is taking part, has been going on since October 1st, according to the announcement. It was unclear when it was supposed to end. Also Read: Ukraine mocks Kremlin over blast on 'key' bridge crucial to Russian war effort This week, joint drills between the United States and South Korea were conducted. According to a statement from North Korea's state media KCNA on Saturday, the defence ministry was "taking a stern look at the development of the current situation, which is very worrisome," about the US-South Korean drills. (with inputs from agencies)

US and Japan conduct joint military drill involving aircraft carrier in Sea of Japan

Japan & South Korea fear North Korea could conduct a nuclear test. Will Kim Jong Un conduct a nuclear test during the Communist Party Congress? Molly Gambhir tells you.

Gravitas: Will North Korea conduct a nuclear test?

Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida is facing accusations of nepotism after he appointed his inexperienced son to be his executive secretary.

WION Fineprint | Japanese PM Kishida faces backlash over son's appointment

The conflict between North Korea and South Korea continues as the former fired two short-range ballistic missiles on the eastern coast of the Korean peninsula on Thursday.

The missiles were launched in the direction of Japan in retaliation to the joint military drills conducted by South Korea and the United States. This was the sixth missile launch by Pyongyang in a little less than two weeks and it has drawn criticism from several countries and the United Nations.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/united-states-accuses-china-russia-of-protecting-north-korea-at-united-nations-522851">United States accuses China, Russia of protecting North Korea at UN</a>

“This is the sixth time in the short period just counting the ones from the end of September,” Japanese prime minister Fumio Kishida told reporters. “This absolutely cannot be tolerated.”

The United States brought up the topic of the missile launches in front of the United Nations security council where it was condemned by as many as nine countries - the United States, Britain, France, Albania, Brazil, India, Ireland, Norway and United Arab Emirates.

However, North Korea criticised them for misunderstanding “counteraction measures of the Korean People’s Army on South Korea-US joint drills.” The foreign ministry issued a statement which also said that the US should be interfere in the region’s politics with the joint military drills.

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Earlier, the US accused Russia and China of shielding North Korea by stopping the United Nations Security Council from imposing sanctions on Pyongyang.

"The DPRK (North Korea) has enjoyed blanket protection from two members of this council," U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations, Linda Thomas-Greenfield, said according to Reuters.

"In short, two permanent members of the Security Council have enabled Kim Jong Un."

(With inputs from agencies)

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The conflict between North Korea and South Korea continues as the former fired two short-range ballistic missiles on the eastern coast of the Korean peninsula on Thursday.

The conflict between North Korea and South Korea continues as the former fired two short-range ballistic missiles on the eastern coast of the Korean peninsula on Thursday. The missiles were launched in the direction of Japan in retaliation to the joint military drills conducted by South Korea and the United States. This was the sixth missile launch by Pyongyang in a little less than two weeks and it has drawn criticism from several countries and the United Nations. Also read | United States accuses China, Russia of protecting North Korea at UN “This is the sixth time in the short period just counting the ones from the end of September,” Japanese prime minister Fumio Kishida told reporters. “This absolutely cannot be tolerated.” The United States brought up the topic of the missile launches in front of the United Nations security council where it was condemned by as many as nine countries - the United States, Britain, France, Albania, Brazil, India, Ireland, Norway and United Arab Emirates. However, North Korea criticised them for misunderstanding “counteraction measures of the Korean People’s Army on South Korea-US joint drills.” The foreign ministry issued a statement which also said that the US should be interfere in the region’s politics with the joint military drills. Also read | FBI search has given Mar-a-Lago ‘about $5bn worth of free publicity’ - Trump Earlier, the US accused Russia and China of shielding North Korea by stopping the United Nations Security Council from imposing sanctions on Pyongyang. "The DPRK (North Korea) has enjoyed blanket protection from two members of this council," U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations, Linda Thomas-Greenfield, said according to Reuters. "In short, two permanent members of the Security Council have enabled Kim Jong Un." (With inputs from agencies)

North Korea fires two ballistic missiles towards sea in direction of Japan

North Korea fired two more missiles on October 6th followed by a warplane excursion at the South Korean border. Are these Security drills, test fires or should we just call these warning shots? Is North Korea gearing up for something else?

What will North Korea fire next?

Japan's Prime Minister Fumio Kishida&nbsp;is under fire for allegedly engaging in nepotism when he named his young son as his executive secretary. Some opponents believe this appointment may have been made to allow the younger Kishida to succeed his father in the parliamentary elections.

Shotaro Kishida, 31, was chosen for the position on Tuesday, according to Chief Cabinet Secretary Hirokazu Matsuno, who stated in a press conference that he was picked for his "personality and understanding." Matsuno stated that the motivation of the authorities had been "the idea of putting the right person in the right location."

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The PM's eldest son Shotaro&nbsp;had worked as a secretary in his father's office since March 2020. Prior to this, he was employed by the trading firm Mitsui &amp; Co.

<img alt="Shotaro" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="cd75f4a4-85b0-4f76-887c-d6065a827d84" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/1200x-1_4.jpg" />

Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida, left, with his oldest son Shotaro, centre, and wife Yuko. Photo credits: Bloomberg

Kishida became Prime Minister exactly one year ago on Tuesday. His popularity has been waning after a reasonably good first few months in office, when it approached 60% of the populace.

Kishida's support has been weakened as a result of revelations regarding the number of members of the governing Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) having ties to the Unification Church.

However, his insistence on holding the lavish, pricey memorial service for Abe, who was shot dead at an LDP gathering in July, has had the most influence on his rapidly declining support ratings.

PM Fumio Kishida’s decision to appoint his son comes just a week after the government held an unpopular state funeral for Shinzo Abe.

“Bringing in his own son is quite unusual as usually these positions are filled by experienced bureaucrats from the ministries,” said Hiromi Murakami, a professor of political science at the Tokyo campus of Temple University.

“And the timing of the announcement, just after Abe’s memorial service is quite bad. It is odd that he did not realise that this does not look good or that no one suggested that to him,” she added.

The leader of the opposition Democratic Party for the People, Yuichiro Tamaki, immediately criticised the action and charged the Prime Minister with "showing favouritism toward relatives."

Social media posts criticising Kishida's waning popularity and accusing him of nepotism were less restrained, and some even called for a law to outlaw "hereditary politics."

"Heritage politics once more? Please put an end to these hereditary appointments. It merely encourages corruption. One tweet stated, "I want a law against hereditary politics."

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Japan's Prime Minister Fumio Kishida is under fire for allegedly engaging in nepotism when he named his young son as his executive secretary. Some opponents believe this appointment may have been made to allow the younger Kishida to succeed his father in the parliamentary elections.

Japan's Prime Minister Fumio Kishida is under fire for allegedly engaging in nepotism when he named his young son as his executive secretary. Some opponents believe this appointment may have been made to allow the younger Kishida to succeed his father in the parliamentary elections. Shotaro Kishida, 31, was chosen for the position on Tuesday, according to Chief Cabinet Secretary Hirokazu Matsuno, who stated in a press conference that he was picked for his "personality and understanding." Matsuno stated that the motivation of the authorities had been "the idea of putting the right person in the right location." Also read | Myanmar court jails Japanese filmmaker for 10 years over sedition charge The PM's eldest son Shotaro had worked as a secretary in his father's office since March 2020. Prior to this, he was employed by the trading firm Mitsui & Co. Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida, left, with his oldest son Shotaro, centre, and wife Yuko. Photo credits: Bloomberg Kishida became Prime Minister exactly one year ago on Tuesday. His popularity has been waning after a reasonably good first few months in office, when it approached 60% of the populace. Kishida's support has been weakened as a result of revelations regarding the number of members of the governing Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) having ties to the Unification Church. However, his insistence on holding the lavish, pricey memorial service for Abe, who was shot dead at an LDP gathering in July, has had the most influence on his rapidly declining support ratings. PM Fumio Kishida’s decision to appoint his son comes just a week after the government held an unpopular state funeral for Shinzo Abe. “Bringing in his own son is quite unusual as usually these positions are filled by experienced bureaucrats from the ministries,” said Hiromi Murakami, a professor of political science at the Tokyo campus of Temple University. “And the timing of the announcement, just after Abe’s memorial service is quite bad. It is odd that he did not realise that this does not look good or that no one suggested that to him,” she added. The leader of the opposition Democratic Party for the People, Yuichiro Tamaki, immediately criticised the action and charged the Prime Minister with "showing favouritism toward relatives." Social media posts criticising Kishida's waning popularity and accusing him of nepotism were less restrained, and some even called for a law to outlaw "hereditary politics." "Heritage politics once more? Please put an end to these hereditary appointments. It merely encourages corruption. One tweet stated, "I want a law against hereditary politics." WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

'Dynastic politics': Japan’s Kishida accused of nepotism for appointing son as executive secretary

Two days after North Korea fired an intermediate-range ballistic missile that flew over Japan, it launched what appeared to be two more short-range ballistic missiles on Thursday.

North Korea fires two ballistic missiles, condemning UNSC

North Korea fired two more ballistic missiles from near Pyongyang toward the Sea of Japan. This after a US aircraft carrier was redeployed to the waters.

North Korea fires two ballistic missiles again as US carrier redeployed

Japanese PM Kishida faces backlash over son's appointment as his executive secretary

If recent intelligence and past trends are considered, North Korea’s recent missile tests over Japan hint at a far more sinister plan.

North Korea's missiles: What's Kim planning? | WION Shorts

On Tuesday, North Korea fired a ballistic missile over Japan. The move halted trains, stranded commuters & left sirens blaring. Japan has called it an 'act of violence' & is exploring 'counter-attack capabilities'.

Gravitas: North Korea fires ballistic missile over Japan

North Korea fired an intermediate-range ballistic missile over Japan, escalating tests of weapons designed to strike key targets in regional US allies.

North Korea-Japan Row | Kishida: Japan strongly condemns firing missile | Latest World News | WION

Japan has expelled a Russian official as a retaliation for expulsion of Japanese diplomat. The Japanese diplomat was accused by Russia of spying. Japan has previously accused that its diplomat was blindfolded and pinned. It had demanded that Russia apologise.

On Tuesday (October 4) Japanese foreign ministry released a statement saying that a Russian consul in the city of Sapporo was asked to leave the country ""as a corresponding measure to Russia's actions".

"The Japanese government declared one consul from the Russian consulate general's office in Sapporo persona non grata, and demanded that the person leave Japan in six days, which is to say by October 10," it said in a statement.&nbsp;

The ministry added that the Russian ambassador has been summoned and informed of the decision. 
&nbsp; 
Last week, top government spokesman Hirokazu Matsuno said that Japan denied the espionage allegations and said the official had been "blindfolded, with pressure applied to both his hands and head so he was unable to move while being detained, and then he was questioned in an overbearing way".&nbsp;

Japan "strongly protests these unbelievable acts", he added.&nbsp;

Russia considers Japan to be a "hostile" country -- a designation it shares with all European Union countries, the United States and its allies, including Britain and Australia.&nbsp;

Russia and Japan are yet to sign a post World War II peace treaty.

(With inputs from agencies)

You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

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Japan has expelled a Russian official as a retaliation for expulsion of Japanese diplomat. The Japanese diplomat was accused by Russia of spying. Japan has previously accused that its diplomat was blindfolded and pinned.

Japan has expelled a Russian official as a retaliation for expulsion of Japanese diplomat. The Japanese diplomat was accused by Russia of spying. Japan has previously accused that its diplomat was blindfolded and pinned. It had demanded that Russia apologise. On Tuesday (October 4) Japanese foreign ministry released a statement saying that a Russian consul in the city of Sapporo was asked to leave the country ""as a corresponding measure to Russia's actions". "The Japanese government declared one consul from the Russian consulate general's office in Sapporo persona non grata, and demanded that the person leave Japan in six days, which is to say by October 10," it said in a statement. The ministry added that the Russian ambassador has been summoned and informed of the decision. Last week, top government spokesman Hirokazu Matsuno said that Japan denied the espionage allegations and said the official had been "blindfolded, with pressure applied to both his hands and head so he was unable to move while being detained, and then he was questioned in an overbearing way". Japan "strongly protests these unbelievable acts", he added. Russia considers Japan to be a "hostile" country -- a designation it shares with all European Union countries, the United States and its allies, including Britain and Australia. Russia and Japan are yet to sign a post World War II peace treaty. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

In tit-for-tat move, Japan expels Russian consul

Nuclear-armed North Korea test-fired a ballistic missile farther than ever, sending it soaring over Japan, for the first time in five years, and prompting a warning for residents there to take cover. Molly Gambhir tells you what this means for the region.

Wion Fineprint | Japan issues rare alert as North Korea fires missile

North Korea fired an unidentified ballistic missile off its east coast on Tuesday, according to South Korea's Joint Chiefs of Staff and the Japanese coast guard. This was North Korea’s fifth test in 10 days as South Korea continue to hold military drills along with the United States military.

"North Korea fired an unidentified ballistic missile east," South Korea's Joint Chiefs of Staff said.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/united-states-to-impose-further-costs-on-iran-for-crackdown-on-protests-joe-biden-says-522203" hreflang="en">US to impose 'further costs' on Iran for crackdown on protests, Joe Biden says</a>

While not many details were provided about the launch, the Japanese coast guard also confirmed the launch and warned the Navy vessels to stay alert in the surrounding areas.

In the aftermath of the missile launch, Japan asked some residents to evacuate their homes.

"North Korea appears to have launched a missile. Please evacuate into buildings or underground," the government said in an alert issued for the northern regions of the country according to Reuters.

The missile launches by Pyongyang has increased in the recent past with South Korea, Japan and the US conducting anti-submarine drills on Friday. US Vice President Kamala Harris also visited Seoul last week and reinforced their commitment to support South Korea in their conflict with the North.

Earlier, North Korea supported Russia’s annexation of the four Ukrainian regions after the referendums and accused the US of applying "gangster-like double standards".

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-sues-cnn-for-defamation-seeks-damages-worth-475-million-522201">Donald Trump sues CNN for defamation, seeks damages worth $475 million</a>

Jo Chol Su, director-general of international organisations at Pyongyang's Foreign Ministry, said that the US should be interfere with the internal matters of other countries.

"To maintain the unchallenged 'unipolar world', the U.S. interferes in the internal affairs of independent countries and infringes upon their legal rights by abusing the UNSC," he said.

"The U.S. unleashed wars of aggression against sovereign states including former Yugoslavia, Afghanistan and Iraq, but the U.S. has not been called into question by the UNSC."

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North Korea fired an unidentified ballistic missile off its east coast on Tuesday, according to South Korea's Joint Chiefs of Staff and the Japanese coast guard.

North Korea fired an unidentified ballistic missile off its east coast on Tuesday, according to South Korea's Joint Chiefs of Staff and the Japanese coast guard. This was North Korea’s fifth test in 10 days as South Korea continue to hold military drills along with the United States military. "North Korea fired an unidentified ballistic missile east," South Korea's Joint Chiefs of Staff said. Also read | US to impose 'further costs' on Iran for crackdown on protests, Joe Biden says While not many details were provided about the launch, the Japanese coast guard also confirmed the launch and warned the Navy vessels to stay alert in the surrounding areas. In the aftermath of the missile launch, Japan asked some residents to evacuate their homes. "North Korea appears to have launched a missile. Please evacuate into buildings or underground," the government said in an alert issued for the northern regions of the country according to Reuters. The missile launches by Pyongyang has increased in the recent past with South Korea, Japan and the US conducting anti-submarine drills on Friday. US Vice President Kamala Harris also visited Seoul last week and reinforced their commitment to support South Korea in their conflict with the North. Earlier, North Korea supported Russia’s annexation of the four Ukrainian regions after the referendums and accused the US of applying "gangster-like double standards". Also read | Donald Trump sues CNN for defamation, seeks damages worth $475 million Jo Chol Su, director-general of international organisations at Pyongyang's Foreign Ministry, said that the US should be interfere with the internal matters of other countries. "To maintain the unchallenged 'unipolar world', the U.S. interferes in the internal affairs of independent countries and infringes upon their legal rights by abusing the UNSC," he said. "The U.S. unleashed wars of aggression against sovereign states including former Yugoslavia, Afghanistan and Iraq, but the U.S. has not been called into question by the UNSC."

North Korea conducts longest-range missile test yet over Japan

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