Overview

• Ruling bloc and a united opposition are contesting 125 seats in the July 20 Upper House election seen as a referendum on government performance.
• LDP veteran Makoto Koga criticized lavish handouts as a “service competition” and warned the party must reflect on its strategy.
• CDP leader Yoshihiko Noda campaigned in Niigata City to promote a consumption tax cut as a measure against rising living costs.
• Miyagi Governor Yoshihiro Murai demanded correction and apology from Sanseito leader Sohei Kamiya over false water utility privatization claims, prompting the party to consider its response.
• Debate on Japan’s wartime legacy and security policy has remained subdued despite the election coinciding with the 80th anniversary of World War II’s end.