2 Scandal-Hit Ex-Abe Faction Lawmakers Join Takaichi Cabinet

Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi has appointed two former lawmakers from the now scandal-hit Abe faction to her Cabinet in a recent reshuffle. Agriculture Minister Kazuo Yana and Education Minister Yoshihiro Seki were both accused of underreporting income in their political funds reports back in 2023. This marks the first time that such lawmakers have been appointed to Cabinet positions since the scandal broke.

Takaichi defended the appointments during a press conference, emphasizing that both lawmakers had since secured victories in lower house elections. She stated that while they cannot undo their past actions, she wants them to fulfill their official duties with integrity. Takaichi also serves as the leader of the ruling Liberal Democratic Party (LDP).

Yana claimed to have faced accountability within his home constituency, while Seki expressed deep regret for his past actions and pledged to learn from the experience. Both men had previously been disciplined by the party, with Yana suspended from party positions for six months and Seki reprimanded.

The move to appoint these lawmakers has drawn criticism from Takeshi Shina, secretary general of the democratic reform association Minshu Kaikaku no Kai. Shina questioned the sincerity of their claims, stating that merely wiping their "slate clean" does not absolve them of responsibility. Takaichi has faced additional scrutiny for her choices in this reshuffle, with some arguing she must also be held accountable for her decisions.