Overview

• Shinjiro Koizumi said an allied office asked supporters to post favorable comments on Niconico and he denied prior knowledge, calling some examples inappropriate.
• A source said Karen Makishima resigned as his campaign chief after the disclosure; she previously served as Japan’s digital minister.
• Some Liberal Democratic Party figures likened the tactic to stealth marketing as Koizumi promised preventative steps and confirmed he will remain in the contest.
• A hashtag on X urged Koizumi to withdraw, even as polls have shown him leading the five-way race for party leader.
• Rival Sanae Takaichi drew separate scrutiny for saying foreigners kicked Nara deer, a claim the local foundation said it had not received reports of, with the Oct. 4 vote still set and the party winner not automatically assured the premiership.