According to local media on Saturday, the suspect in the alleged murder of former Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe will have a mental health evaluation done. On July 8 in the western city of Nara, two days before the nation's upper house elections, Abe was shot and killed while out campaigning. Tetsuya Yamagami, the man who is accused of killing Abe, is currently in detention and is said to have chosen Abe because he thought the former leader had ties to the Unification Church.

According to anonymous investigation sources cited by the Asahi Shimbun and other local media outlets, the Nara District Court on Friday granted permission for the local public prosecutor's office to seek that 41-year-old Yamagami undergoes a psychiatric evaluation. According to the reports, the test should be finished by the end of November. The suspect will not be questioned further during the mental assessment. The assessment will be used by prosecutors to decide if Yamagami can be held criminally liable before deciding whether or not to indict him, according to the reports.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/sri-lankan-crisis-economy-lessons-india-can-learn-498205">Sri Lankan crisis: Economy lessons India can learn</a>

Abe was the most well-known politician in Japan, and even after stepping down in 2020 because of health issues, he continued to play a significant role in society. He was also a controversial character who was accused of favouritism and criticised for his ardent nationalist sentiments. Officials from the prosecution and the court could not be reached right away to confirm the reports from the local media.

(with inputs from agencies)

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1  width=&quot;100%&quot;"></iframe>

According to local media on Saturday, the suspect in the alleged murder of former Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe will have a mental health evaluation done. On July 8 in the western city of Nara, two days before the nation's upper house elections, Abe was shot and killed while out campaigning.

According to local media on Saturday, the suspect in the alleged murder of former Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe will have a mental health evaluation done. On July 8 in the western city of Nara, two days before the nation's upper house elections, Abe was shot and killed while out campaigning. Tetsuya Yamagami, the man who is accused of killing Abe, is currently in detention and is said to have chosen Abe because he thought the former leader had ties to the Unification Church. According to anonymous investigation sources cited by the Asahi Shimbun and other local media outlets, the Nara District Court on Friday granted permission for the local public prosecutor's office to seek that 41-year-old Yamagami undergoes a psychiatric evaluation. According to the reports, the test should be finished by the end of November. The suspect will not be questioned further during the mental assessment. The assessment will be used by prosecutors to decide if Yamagami can be held criminally liable before deciding whether or not to indict him, according to the reports. Also Read: Sri Lankan crisis: Economy lessons India can learn Abe was the most well-known politician in Japan, and even after stepping down in 2020 because of health issues, he continued to play a significant role in society. He was also a controversial character who was accused of favouritism and criticised for his ardent nationalist sentiments. Officials from the prosecution and the court could not be reached right away to confirm the reports from the local media. (with inputs from agencies)

Shinzo Abe's accused assassinator to undergo psychiatric examination: Report

Shinzo Abe, the former prime minister of Japan, was shot dead in the open on Friday (July 8) in Nara city, during a campaign that shocked the world. Since the local police commander acknowledged the issue, the Japanese national broadcaster, NHK, reported that the suspect first intended to use explosives, and there have been concerns expressed about the lack of security surrounding Abe at the time of the shooting. Tetsuya Yamagami, 41, was detained by police on Friday at the scene of the incident. Although he has not been legally charged, they still claim him to be the suspect, reported CNN.

As per NHK, the suspect admitted to investigators that his initial plan involved deploying explosives to assassinate Abe during a gathering in Okayama, a prefecture that is three hours away from Nara. In conversation with CNN, Nara prefecture said that the suspect was seen by surveillance cameras leaving the Yamato-Saidaiji station in the city after boarding the train and travelling to the campaign.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/japans-ruling-coalition-party-achieves-significant-victory-following-shinzo-abes-death-496222">Following Shinzo Abe’s death, Japan's ruling&nbsp;coalition party achieves significant victory</a>

Tomoaki Onizuka, the head of the police department, declared that he "can't deny there were problems" with Abe's security, and that he "take[s] responsibility" for the mishap. In his emotional statement, the head further added, "After the first report of the incident came ... it was the height of the guilt and regret I've felt in my 27 years in law enforcement." "I feel the weight of my responsibility."

Watch |&nbsp;Councillors Elections: Japan's ruling coalition makes strong election showing

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/councillors-elections-japans-ruling-coalition-makes-strong-election-showing-496230/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Since Abe’s passing, mourners have gathered and laid flowers at a temporary monument outside the Yamato-Saidaiji station in Nara, close to the location of the former leader’s murder.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/shinzo-abes-loss-shadows-polls-but-japan-says-it-not-halt-the-democratic-process-496055">Shinzo Abe assassination shadows polls, but Japan will 'not halt the democratic process'</a>

World leaders have extended condolences in response to Abe’s murder, expressing their outrage and sorrow. According to NHK, his widow Akie Abe will host the burial at a temple in Tokyo, with attendance restricted to family members and close friends of the former prime minister.

(With inputs from agencies)

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

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>.

Shinzo Abe, the former prime minister of Japan, was shot dead in the open on Friday (July 8) in Nara city, during a campaign that shocked the world. Since the local police commander acknowledged the issue, the Japanese national broadcaster, NHK, reported that the suspect first intended to use explosives, and there have been concerns expressed about the lack of security surrounding Abe at the time of the shooting.

Shinzo Abe, the former prime minister of Japan, was shot dead in the open on Friday (July 8) in Nara city, during a campaign that shocked the world. Since the local police commander acknowledged the issue, the Japanese national broadcaster, NHK, reported that the suspect first intended to use explosives, and there have been concerns expressed about the lack of security surrounding Abe at the time of the shooting. Tetsuya Yamagami, 41, was detained by police on Friday at the scene of the incident. Although he has not been legally charged, they still claim him to be the suspect, reported CNN. As per NHK, the suspect admitted to investigators that his initial plan involved deploying explosives to assassinate Abe during a gathering in Okayama, a prefecture that is three hours away from Nara. In conversation with CNN, Nara prefecture said that the suspect was seen by surveillance cameras leaving the Yamato-Saidaiji station in the city after boarding the train and travelling to the campaign. Also read | Following Shinzo Abe’s death, Japan's ruling coalition party achieves significant victory Tomoaki Onizuka, the head of the police department, declared that he "can't deny there were problems" with Abe's security, and that he "take[s] responsibility" for the mishap. In his emotional statement, the head further added, "After the first report of the incident came ... it was the height of the guilt and regret I've felt in my 27 years in law enforcement." "I feel the weight of my responsibility." Watch | Councillors Elections: Japan's ruling coalition makes strong election showing Since Abe’s passing, mourners have gathered and laid flowers at a temporary monument outside the Yamato-Saidaiji station in Nara, close to the location of the former leader’s murder. Also read | Shinzo Abe assassination shadows polls, but Japan will 'not halt the democratic process' World leaders have extended condolences in response to Abe’s murder, expressing their outrage and sorrow. According to NHK, his widow Akie Abe will host the burial at a temple in Tokyo, with attendance restricted to family members and close friends of the former prime minister. (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.

Japanese police say suspect's initial plan was to deploy explosions to assassinate Shinzo Abe

The State Department announced late on Saturday (July 9)&nbsp;that US Secretary Antony Blinken would be extending his travel to Asia to include a stop in Tokyo so that he could express his condolences to the Japanese for the death of former prime minister Shinzo Abe, who has been assassinated. US Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen meanwhile decided to postpone her visit to the Port of Yokohama during, following the murder of Abe, an official announced. However, her bilateral meetings in Japan will still happen, as per the official.&nbsp;

The world’s longest-serving prime minister, Abe was shot on Friday (July 8), while campaigning in one of the safest nations in the world. In an effort to break some of his nation’s post-war pacifism, Abe had established close ties with the US, particularly in the area of defence.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/undeniable-flaws-in-security-nara-police-chief-takes-responsibility-for-shinzo-abes-assassination-495900">Shinzo Abe's assassination: Local police say there were 'undeniable flaws' in security</a>

Prior to that, US President Joe Biden personally visited the Japanese ambassador’s residence in Washington to sign a condolence book.

Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: A look back at Shinzo Abe's political legacy

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-a-look-back-at-shinzo-abes-political-legacy-495691/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Blinken, after Group of 20 talks in Bali, said, "Prime Minister Abe really brought that partnership to new heights. The friendship between the Japanese and American people is likewise unshakable. He further added, "So we're standing with the people of Japan, with the prime minister's family, in the aftermath of a truly, truly appalling act of violence."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/shinzo-abes-killing-tetsuya-yamagami-initially-planned-to-attack-religious-leader-say-police-495852">Shinzo Abe’s killing: Tetsuya Yamagami initially planned to attack religious leader, say Police</a>

Yellen was supposed to visit the port, participate in a roundtable with business executives, tour the facilities and give a speech.&nbsp;During her visit to Asia, Yellen will be attending a gathering of the Group of 20 major economies in Indonesia and speaking with South Korean officials in an effort to rally support for a price ceiling on Russian oil, the Treasury Department said.

(With inputs from agencies)

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

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>.

The State Department announced late on Saturday (July 9) that US Secretary Antony Blinken would be extending his travel to Asia to include a stop in Tokyo so that he could express his condolences to the Japanese for the death of former prime minister Shinzo Abe, who has been assassinated.

The State Department announced late on Saturday (July 9) that US Secretary Antony Blinken would be extending his travel to Asia to include a stop in Tokyo so that he could express his condolences to the Japanese for the death of former prime minister Shinzo Abe, who has been assassinated. US Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen meanwhile decided to postpone her visit to the Port of Yokohama during, following the murder of Abe, an official announced. However, her bilateral meetings in Japan will still happen, as per the official. The world’s longest-serving prime minister, Abe was shot on Friday (July 8), while campaigning in one of the safest nations in the world. In an effort to break some of his nation’s post-war pacifism, Abe had established close ties with the US, particularly in the area of defence. Also read | Shinzo Abe's assassination: Local police say there were 'undeniable flaws' in security Prior to that, US President Joe Biden personally visited the Japanese ambassador’s residence in Washington to sign a condolence book. Watch | Gravitas: A look back at Shinzo Abe's political legacy Blinken, after Group of 20 talks in Bali, said, "Prime Minister Abe really brought that partnership to new heights. The friendship between the Japanese and American people is likewise unshakable. He further added, "So we're standing with the people of Japan, with the prime minister's family, in the aftermath of a truly, truly appalling act of violence." Also read | Shinzo Abe’s killing: Tetsuya Yamagami initially planned to attack religious leader, say Police Yellen was supposed to visit the port, participate in a roundtable with business executives, tour the facilities and give a speech. During her visit to Asia, Yellen will be attending a gathering of the Group of 20 major economies in Indonesia and speaking with South Korean officials in an effort to rally support for a price ceiling on Russian oil, the Treasury Department said. (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.

US mourns for Shinzo Abe: Blinken to visit Japan to pay condolences, Yellen cancels speech in deference

Just two days after Shinzo Abe, the former prime minister, was assassinated while campaigning in Japan, voters cast their ballots in an upper house election on Sunday. The killing has cast a shadow over the election, which is anticipated to strengthen the majority held by Abe's ruling Liberal Democratic Party. However, Prime Minister Fumio Kishida, political parties and lawmakers have said that the shocking murder would not halt the democratic process.&nbsp;Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) and coalition partner Komeito have a sizable majority in parliament.&nbsp;The election on Sunday is anticipated to solidify that grasp on power, putting LDP's Kishida in a better position to enter a "golden three years" during which he won't have to face any more elections.

Watch |&nbsp;Shinzo Abe assassinated: Japan's longest-serving &amp; youngest post-war PM

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/shinzo-abe-assassinated-japans-longest-serving-youngest-post-war-pm-496003/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

"We must never allow violence to suppress speech during elections, which are the foundation of democracy," said Kishida.

When Tetsuya Yamagami, a 41-year-old who is currently in police custody, opened fire, Shinzo Abe was out in Nara's western district supporting a candidate from his governing LDP. On Saturday, local police there acknowledged "problems" with the security measures employed for a high-profile figure like Abe.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/huge-price-paid-for-being-in-public-eye-abe-gaddafi-bhutto-more-politicians-assassinated-in-21st-century-495794" hreflang="en">Huge price paid for being in public eye: Abe, Gadhafi, Bhutto &amp; more, politicians assassinated in 21st century</a>

"I believe it is undeniable that there were problems with the guarding and safety measures for former prime minister Abe," police chief Tomoaki Onizuka told media on Saturday.

"In all the years since I became a police officer in 1995... there is no greater remorse, no bigger regret than this," the tearful police chief added.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/japan-refuses-to-bow-down-to-violence-election-campaign-to-resume-today-495727" hreflang="en">As Abe's remains reach Tokyo, Japan refuses to bow down to violence; Election campaign to resume today</a>

Even as Kishida looks forward to the&nbsp;"golden three years" he&nbsp;will have to&nbsp;grapple with serious policy challenges, such as rising costs and energy shortages, particularly in the wake of the early summer heatwave that caused a power shortfall.

Polls close at 8:00 pm local time&nbsp;(1100 GMT), and results are anticipated from Japanese media shortly thereafter.

(With inputs from agencies)

Watch WION LIVE HERE:

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

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>.

Just two days after Shinzo Abe, the former prime minister, was assassinated while campaigning in Japan, voters cast their ballots in an upper house election on Sunday.

Just two days after Shinzo Abe, the former prime minister, was assassinated while campaigning in Japan, voters cast their ballots in an upper house election on Sunday. The killing has cast a shadow over the election, which is anticipated to strengthen the majority held by Abe's ruling Liberal Democratic Party. However, Prime Minister Fumio Kishida, political parties and lawmakers have said that the shocking murder would not halt the democratic process. Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) and coalition partner Komeito have a sizable majority in parliament. The election on Sunday is anticipated to solidify that grasp on power, putting LDP's Kishida in a better position to enter a "golden three years" during which he won't have to face any more elections. Watch | Shinzo Abe assassinated: Japan's longest-serving & youngest post-war PM "We must never allow violence to suppress speech during elections, which are the foundation of democracy," said Kishida. When Tetsuya Yamagami, a 41-year-old who is currently in police custody, opened fire, Shinzo Abe was out in Nara's western district supporting a candidate from his governing LDP. On Saturday, local police there acknowledged "problems" with the security measures employed for a high-profile figure like Abe. Also read | Huge price paid for being in public eye: Abe, Gadhafi, Bhutto & more, politicians assassinated in 21st century "I believe it is undeniable that there were problems with the guarding and safety measures for former prime minister Abe," police chief Tomoaki Onizuka told media on Saturday. "In all the years since I became a police officer in 1995... there is no greater remorse, no bigger regret than this," the tearful police chief added. Also read | As Abe's remains reach Tokyo, Japan refuses to bow down to violence; Election campaign to resume today Even as Kishida looks forward to the "golden three years" he will have to grapple with serious policy challenges, such as rising costs and energy shortages, particularly in the wake of the early summer heatwave that caused a power shortfall. Polls close at 8:00 pm local time (1100 GMT), and results are anticipated from Japanese media shortly thereafter. (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.

Shinzo Abe assassination shadows polls, but Japan will 'not halt the democratic process'

China's President Xi Jinping expressed his condolences on Saturday over the death of former Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, whom Xi said had worked hard to improve relations between the neighbours, Chinese state media reported.

Japan's longest-serving modern leader was gunned down on Friday in the Japanese city of Nara while making a campaign speech for a parliamentary election. A 41-year-old Japanese male suspect has been arrested.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/shinzo-abe-a-look-at-japans-longest-serving-prime-minister-495470">Shinzo Abe assassinated: A look at Japan's longest serving prime minister's career</a>

"I deeply regret his sudden death," state media quoted Xi as saying on behalf of the Chinese government and people in a message to Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida.

"I once reached important consensus with him on building China-Japan relations."

Xi also extended his condolences to Abe's family, state television reported.

Ties between Japan and China have been plagued for years by a territorial dispute over a group of tiny East China Sea islets as well as the legacy of Japan's past military aggression.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/japan-refuses-to-bow-down-to-violence-election-campaign-to-resume-today-495727">As Abe's remains reach Tokyo, Japan refuses to bow down to violence; Election campaign to resume today</a>

But relations warmed while Abe's was prime minister, particularly during his second term from 2012 to 2020.

Abe made a rare state visit to China in 2018 and, in return, Xi was expected to visit Japan in 2020, which would have marked the first trip by a Chinese president to Japan since 2008.

But the plan was shelved because of the COVID-19 outbreak.

Bilateral ties have become more complex in recent months, with Kishida's government calling for increased defence spending and expressing concern over threats faced by self-ruled Taiwan, which China claims as its own.

Watch |&nbsp;A lookback at Japan Ex-PM Shinzo Abe's life

<iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/a-lookback-at-japan-ex-pm-shinzo-abes-life-495701/embed" width="560"></iframe>

Kishida has also said he was disappointed by efforts by China to develop areas in the East China Sea, saying it was "unacceptable".

The dispute over the East China Sea islands, which Japan controls but China also claims, and the waters around them, has been a longtime source of tension between the world's second- and third-biggest economies.

In his message to Kishida, Xi said he was willing to work with him on developing friendly and neighbourly ties.

Watch WION LIVE HERE:

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

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>.

China's President Xi Jinping expressed his condolences on Saturday over the death of former Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, whom Xi said had worked hard to improve relations between the neighbours, Chinese state media reported.

China's President Xi Jinping expressed his condolences on Saturday over the death of former Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, whom Xi said had worked hard to improve relations between the neighbours, Chinese state media reported. Japan's longest-serving modern leader was gunned down on Friday in the Japanese city of Nara while making a campaign speech for a parliamentary election. A 41-year-old Japanese male suspect has been arrested. Also read | Shinzo Abe assassinated: A look at Japan's longest serving prime minister's career "I deeply regret his sudden death," state media quoted Xi as saying on behalf of the Chinese government and people in a message to Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida. "I once reached important consensus with him on building China-Japan relations." Xi also extended his condolences to Abe's family, state television reported. Ties between Japan and China have been plagued for years by a territorial dispute over a group of tiny East China Sea islets as well as the legacy of Japan's past military aggression. Also read | As Abe's remains reach Tokyo, Japan refuses to bow down to violence; Election campaign to resume today But relations warmed while Abe's was prime minister, particularly during his second term from 2012 to 2020. Abe made a rare state visit to China in 2018 and, in return, Xi was expected to visit Japan in 2020, which would have marked the first trip by a Chinese president to Japan since 2008. But the plan was shelved because of the COVID-19 outbreak. Bilateral ties have become more complex in recent months, with Kishida's government calling for increased defence spending and expressing concern over threats faced by self-ruled Taiwan, which China claims as its own. Watch | A lookback at Japan Ex-PM Shinzo Abe's life Kishida has also said he was disappointed by efforts by China to develop areas in the East China Sea, saying it was "unacceptable". The dispute over the East China Sea islands, which Japan controls but China also claims, and the waters around them, has been a longtime source of tension between the world's second- and third-biggest economies. In his message to Kishida, Xi said he was willing to work with him on developing friendly and neighbourly ties. 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.

China's Xi 'deeply regrets' death of Japan's Shinzo Abe

A day after Japan's former Prime Minister Shinzo Abe was assassinated by a gunman in the western city of Nara, campaigning for the approaching elections is set to resume on Saturday (July 9th), the final day of campaigning before voting on Sunday (July 10th). From the western Japanese city where he was shot, a hearse transporting the remains of the slain former prime minister arrived in Tokyo on Saturday. Even as police sought to determine the motivation and method of Abe's assassination, the Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) and other parties announced they would resume their campaigns for the upper house of parliament on Saturday.&nbsp;Officials claimed that Abe, who was shot while campaigning for his country's ruling Liberal Democratic Party, had not received any threats.

Watch |&nbsp;A lookback at Japan Ex-PM Shinzo Abe's life

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/a-lookback-at-japan-ex-pm-shinzo-abes-life-495701/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Many parties have decided to&nbsp;refrain from sending out top figures to speak on the last day of campaigning, but it will still take place to show the country's refusal to submit to violence, reports NHK.

Shinzo Abe's party and its coalition partner Komeito are anticipated to solidify their parliamentary majorities, in Sunday's election. Polling conducted prior to the killing indicated that the LDP, where Abe still had a significant amount of influence, was gaining seats.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/shinzo-abe-a-look-at-japans-longest-serving-prime-minister-495470">Shinzo Abe assassinated: A look at Japan's longest-serving prime minister's career</a>

However, James Brady, vice president of the advisory firm Teneo, in a note predicted&nbsp;that the&nbsp;"wave of sympathy votes now could boost the margin of victory."&nbsp;

Given the nation's low rates of violent crime and strong gun laws, the assassination of Japan's most well-known politician has very understandably shook the nation and sent shockwaves around the globe.

In the country, politicians frequently make direct pleas to voters outside of railway stations and supermarkets during election season. The assassination has raised concerns about the security measures for public figures.

(With inputs from agencies)

Watch WION LIVE HERE:

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

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>.

A day after Japan's former Prime Minister Shinzo Abe was assassinated by a gunman in the western city of Nara, campaigning for the approaching elections is set to resume on Saturday (July 9th), the final day of campaigning before voting on Sunday (July 10th).

A day after Japan's former Prime Minister Shinzo Abe was assassinated by a gunman in the western city of Nara, campaigning for the approaching elections is set to resume on Saturday (July 9th), the final day of campaigning before voting on Sunday (July 10th). From the western Japanese city where he was shot, a hearse transporting the remains of the slain former prime minister arrived in Tokyo on Saturday. Even as police sought to determine the motivation and method of Abe's assassination, the Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) and other parties announced they would resume their campaigns for the upper house of parliament on Saturday. Officials claimed that Abe, who was shot while campaigning for his country's ruling Liberal Democratic Party, had not received any threats. Watch | A lookback at Japan Ex-PM Shinzo Abe's life Many parties have decided to refrain from sending out top figures to speak on the last day of campaigning, but it will still take place to show the country's refusal to submit to violence, reports NHK. Shinzo Abe's party and its coalition partner Komeito are anticipated to solidify their parliamentary majorities, in Sunday's election. Polling conducted prior to the killing indicated that the LDP, where Abe still had a significant amount of influence, was gaining seats. Also read | Shinzo Abe assassinated: A look at Japan's longest-serving prime minister's career However, James Brady, vice president of the advisory firm Teneo, in a note predicted that the "wave of sympathy votes now could boost the margin of victory." Given the nation's low rates of violent crime and strong gun laws, the assassination of Japan's most well-known politician has very understandably shook the nation and sent shockwaves around the globe. In the country, politicians frequently make direct pleas to voters outside of railway stations and supermarkets during election season. The assassination has raised concerns about the security measures for public figures. (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.

As Abe's remains reach Tokyo, Japan refuses to bow down to violence; Election campaign to resume today

The Japanese media on Saturday reported that the man who fatally shot former Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe has admitted to authorities that his original intent was to assassinate a figurehead of a religious organisation. According to Kyodo News, which cited the police, Tetsuya Yamagami, 41, claimed he had a vendetta against a "particular organisation" that he thought was associated with Shinzo Abe. This organisation may have been a religious organisation. The story did not name the religious figurehead.

According to local media citing police sources, Yamagami told police he thought Abe was associated with a religious organisation which he held responsible for wrecking his mother's finances and severing the family. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/shinzo-abes-killer-who-is-he-and-why-did-he-target-the-beloved-ex-prime-minister-495805">Also read | Shinzo Abe's killer: Who is he and why did he target the beloved ex-Prime Minister?</a>

"He (Yamagami) confessed that he had some resentment against a certain organisation and was under the impression that the former prime minister having some connection to it, which led to the act. I would like to avoid further details," &nbsp;Kazuhisa Yamamura, the Head of the First Investigation Division, Nara Prefecture Police, told a news conference.

Watch |&nbsp;A lookback at Japan Ex-PM Shinzo Abe's life

<iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/a-lookback-at-japan-ex-pm-shinzo-abes-life-495701/embed" width="560"></iframe>

Yamagami shot at Abe on a street on Friday when he was giving a speech at a rally and opened fire from behind. This attack shocked a country with some of the strongest gun control laws in the world.

When police searched Yamagami's neighbouring one-room apartment, they found comparable weapons and his personal computer. Yamagami was claimed to have used an obviously handmade gun that was around 40 centimetres long. An investigation into the shooting has been started by a task group with 90 members.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/japan-refuses-to-bow-down-to-violence-election-campaign-to-resume-today-495727">As Abe's remains reach Tokyo, Japan refuses to bow down to violence; Election campaign to resume today</a>

At the Kure base in Hiroshima Prefecture in 2005, Tetsuya Yamagami worked as a Maritime Self-Defense officer.

He worked at a manufacturing firm in the Kansai area in 2020, but he informed the employer that he wanted to leave because he was "weary" in April of this year. He departed the position the following month.

On the last day of campaigning before voting for the upper house of parliament, which is anticipated to give the ruling coalition led by Prime Minister Fumio Kishida, an Abe protege, a victory, campaigning resumed.

After making an urgent trip back to Tokyo on Friday in the wake of the shooting, Kishida has now resumed his campaign tour, stopping in at local voting centres.

On Saturday, a steady stream of mourners travelled to the murder site in Nara. At a table with a picture of Abe giving a speech, there was a line of more than 100 people waiting to place flowers at noon, and more kept coming.

According to the Japanese media, a vigil will be held on Monday, and close friends will attend Abe's funeral on Tuesday. There was no immediate notification of a memorial service for the public. 
&nbsp;

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

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>.

The Japanese media on Saturday reported that the man who fatally shot former Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe has admitted to authorities that his original intent was to assassinate a figurehead of a religious organisation.

The Japanese media on Saturday reported that the man who fatally shot former Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe has admitted to authorities that his original intent was to assassinate a figurehead of a religious organisation. According to Kyodo News, which cited the police, Tetsuya Yamagami, 41, claimed he had a vendetta against a "particular organisation" that he thought was associated with Shinzo Abe. This organisation may have been a religious organisation. The story did not name the religious figurehead. According to local media citing police sources, Yamagami told police he thought Abe was associated with a religious organisation which he held responsible for wrecking his mother's finances and severing the family. Also read | Shinzo Abe's killer: Who is he and why did he target the beloved ex-Prime Minister? "He (Yamagami) confessed that he had some resentment against a certain organisation and was under the impression that the former prime minister having some connection to it, which led to the act. I would like to avoid further details," Kazuhisa Yamamura, the Head of the First Investigation Division, Nara Prefecture Police, told a news conference. Watch | A lookback at Japan Ex-PM Shinzo Abe's life Yamagami shot at Abe on a street on Friday when he was giving a speech at a rally and opened fire from behind. This attack shocked a country with some of the strongest gun control laws in the world. When police searched Yamagami's neighbouring one-room apartment, they found comparable weapons and his personal computer. Yamagami was claimed to have used an obviously handmade gun that was around 40 centimetres long. An investigation into the shooting has been started by a task group with 90 members. Also read | As Abe's remains reach Tokyo, Japan refuses to bow down to violence; Election campaign to resume today At the Kure base in Hiroshima Prefecture in 2005, Tetsuya Yamagami worked as a Maritime Self-Defense officer. He worked at a manufacturing firm in the Kansai area in 2020, but he informed the employer that he wanted to leave because he was "weary" in April of this year. He departed the position the following month. On the last day of campaigning before voting for the upper house of parliament, which is anticipated to give the ruling coalition led by Prime Minister Fumio Kishida, an Abe protege, a victory, campaigning resumed. After making an urgent trip back to Tokyo on Friday in the wake of the shooting, Kishida has now resumed his campaign tour, stopping in at local voting centres. On Saturday, a steady stream of mourners travelled to the murder site in Nara. At a table with a picture of Abe giving a speech, there was a line of more than 100 people waiting to place flowers at noon, and more kept coming. According to the Japanese media, a vigil will be held on Monday, and close friends will attend Abe's funeral on Tuesday. There was no immediate notification of a memorial service for the public. 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.

Shinzo Abe’s killing: Tetsuya Yamagami initially planned to attack religious leader, say Police

Shinzo Abe's suspected killer has acknowledged targeting the politician and claimed he had a grudge against a group he believed Abe was affiliated with. This is according to police reports released on Friday. Senior police officers as per an AFP report have named the suspect as an unemployed 41-year-old man named Tetsuya Yamagami, who was detained at the scene of the murder. The former Japanese Prime Minister was assassinated while delivering a speech as he campaigned for the upcoming elections on behalf of the LDP (Liberal Democratic Party) in the western region of Nara.&nbsp;Japan has strong gun restrictions that make getting a handgun very difficult, which could be the reason that the killer chose to use a "handmade" weapon.

Watch |&nbsp;A lookback at Japan Ex-PM Shinzo Abe's life

<iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/a-lookback-at-japan-ex-pm-shinzo-abes-life-495701/embed" width="560"></iframe>

"That's the suspect's assertion, and we have determined that (the gun) is clearly handmade in appearance, although our analysis is currently ongoing," an officer told reporters.

A photo of Yamagami at the site shows him holding a sizable, boxy, black device with what seems to be two barrels.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/japan-refuses-to-bow-down-to-violence-election-campaign-to-resume-today-495727">As Abe's remains reach Tokyo, Japan refuses to bow down to violence; Election campaign to resume today</a>

Police refused to provide information about the "specific organisation" the suspect referenced, citing an ongoing investigation. However, some Japanese media sites identified it as a religious organisation.

After 5 o'clock, officers started searching the suspect's residence and seized "several handmade gun-like items."

The suspect, who spoke to police in a "matter-of-fact" manner, claimed to have been in the Japanese navy's Maritime Self-Defense Force for three years, starting in 2002, although these specifics are still being looked into.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/shinzo-abe-a-look-at-japans-longest-serving-prime-minister-495470">Shinzo Abe assassinated: A look at Japan's longest serving prime minister's career</a>

After being apprehended, he allegedly informed police that he "was frustrated with the former prime minister and targeted Abe with the intention of killing him," according to NHK.&nbsp;

The officers claimed that Yamagami also admitted to them that he had read about Abe's visit online.&nbsp;They further stated that they were investigating any security vulnerabilities at the campaign event where the incident occurred on Friday morning.

"We will take appropriate measures if problems were discovered."

(With inputs from agencies)

Watch WION LIVE HERE:

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

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>.

Shinzo Abe's suspected killer has acknowledged targeting the politician and claimed he had a grudge against a group he believed Abe was affiliated with. This is according to police reports released on Friday.

Shinzo Abe's suspected killer has acknowledged targeting the politician and claimed he had a grudge against a group he believed Abe was affiliated with. This is according to police reports released on Friday. Senior police officers as per an AFP report have named the suspect as an unemployed 41-year-old man named Tetsuya Yamagami, who was detained at the scene of the murder. The former Japanese Prime Minister was assassinated while delivering a speech as he campaigned for the upcoming elections on behalf of the LDP (Liberal Democratic Party) in the western region of Nara. Japan has strong gun restrictions that make getting a handgun very difficult, which could be the reason that the killer chose to use a "handmade" weapon. Watch | A lookback at Japan Ex-PM Shinzo Abe's life "That's the suspect's assertion, and we have determined that (the gun) is clearly handmade in appearance, although our analysis is currently ongoing," an officer told reporters. A photo of Yamagami at the site shows him holding a sizable, boxy, black device with what seems to be two barrels. Also read | As Abe's remains reach Tokyo, Japan refuses to bow down to violence; Election campaign to resume today Police refused to provide information about the "specific organisation" the suspect referenced, citing an ongoing investigation. However, some Japanese media sites identified it as a religious organisation. After 5 o'clock, officers started searching the suspect's residence and seized "several handmade gun-like items." The suspect, who spoke to police in a "matter-of-fact" manner, claimed to have been in the Japanese navy's Maritime Self-Defense Force for three years, starting in 2002, although these specifics are still being looked into. Also read | Shinzo Abe assassinated: A look at Japan's longest serving prime minister's career After being apprehended, he allegedly informed police that he "was frustrated with the former prime minister and targeted Abe with the intention of killing him," according to NHK. The officers claimed that Yamagami also admitted to them that he had read about Abe's visit online. They further stated that they were investigating any security vulnerabilities at the campaign event where the incident occurred on Friday morning. "We will take appropriate measures if problems were discovered." (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.

Shinzo Abe's killer: Who is he and why did he target the beloved ex-Prime Minister?