- 14 Mar 2002
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The ruling LDP came under fire on Tuesday from opposition figures after a Self-Defence Forces member appeared at its recent annual convention and sang the national anthem. Critics said the move could breach legal limits on political activity by serving personnel. The performance took place in Tokyo on Sunday. Sgt. Tsugumi Mai, a soprano with the Ground Self-Defence Force's Central Band, sang in uniform at the event. The Self-Defence Forces Act restricts members' political activities, aside from voting.
Junya Ogawa, who leads the largest opposition group, the Centrist Reform Alliance, told reporters on Tuesday that the case was, at the very least, inappropriate and might also violate the law. He said it raised questions that could not be ignored. Yuichiro Tamaki, head of the Democratic Party for the People, also voiced concern. At a press conference, he said the LDP should have avoided actions that risked casting doubt on the SDF's political neutrality.
Junya Ogawa, who leads the largest opposition group, the Centrist Reform Alliance, told reporters on Tuesday that the case was, at the very least, inappropriate and might also violate the law. He said it raised questions that could not be ignored. Yuichiro Tamaki, head of the Democratic Party for the People, also voiced concern. At a press conference, he said the LDP should have avoided actions that risked casting doubt on the SDF's political neutrality.
Japan ruling party under fire for having SDF member sing at convention
The ruling Liberal Democratic Party faced criticism Tuesday from the opposition for having a Self-Defense Forces member appear at its recent annual convention to sing the national anthem, potentially breaching legal limits on political activities by serving members.