Race for Japan's vaguely defined '2nd capital' puts fair selection in focus

Tokyo (Kyodo) -- Rival cities across Japan are vying to become the nation's second capital, despite a newly enacted law that lacks clear criteria for selection, raising concerns about a biased process. Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi, of the ruling Liberal Democratic Party, is working with the Osaka-based Japan Innovation Party on this goal, but the law's rushed enactment has sparked criticism.

Key to a fair competition is transparency in criteria and a well-defined purpose for the second capital, say legal experts. Professor Akifumi Shimada of Kyushu University warns that political ties to the Osaka metropolis plan may taint the selection process. The legislation permits the prime minister to pick a backup capital based on population and economic size, with tax incentives for successful applicants.

Enacted in July, the law takes effect by October, with the government to set specific requirements. The JIP, advocating for its "Osaka metropolis plan," has faced two failed referendums in the past. Takaichi's coalition agreement with JIP has driven the second capital push. Several prefectures, including Fukuoka, Hokkaido, and Hiroshima, have shown interest, but definitions of the second capital's purpose vary.

Some see it as a primary backup for Tokyo, while others believe it can foster economic growth elsewhere. Experts argue that the competing goals could lead to disparities between designated regions and the rest of the country.