Japan's new leader expresses regret for governing party slush fund scandal, vows stronger defense
New Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba has opened his first policy speech in office by expressing deep regrets over the governing party’s slush funds scandal that dogged his predecessor
By MARI YAMAGUCHI
Published - Oct 04, 2024, 02:20 AM ET
Last Updated - Dec 16, 2024, 06:38 PM EST
TOKYO (AP) — New Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba opened his first policy speech in office Friday by expressing deep regrets over the governing party's slush funds scandal that dogged his predecessor.
Ishiba replaced Fumio Kishida on Tuesday with the paramount mission of quickly pacifying public anger over financial misconduct in the Liberal Democratic Party and regaining support ahead of an Oct. 27 parliamentary election.
“I will achieve politics that is not for politicians but for the people,” Ishiba said, pledging to provide sincere explanations and ensure that lawmakers abide by the rules.
He set five policy pillars to uphold, including security, economy and disaster resilience.
