Former Digital Minister Taro Kono (LDP, Kanagawa 15th district) appeared on Fuji TV and BS Teleto’s news programs on the 27th, discussing the ruling party’s major defeat in the Upper House election and measures against rising prices. He stated, “Since the opposition won, there is now a situation where some form of consumption tax reduction will be inevitable.” He reiterated his stance that “as an organization, it is necessary for the Secretary-General to take full responsibility,” emphasizing that Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba’s continuation in office would require the resignation of Secretary-General Hiroshi Moriyama.
Kono reflected on the policy negotiations during the Upper House election, saying, “Once the debate shifted to a binary choice between ‘cash handouts or tax cuts,’ it was already a losing strategy.” Regarding the path to a consumption tax reduction, he noted, “Even if we call it a tax cut, each party has different proposals. Will a unified plan emerge? There are concerns that if such a plan is introduced, it could lead to a weaker yen or a spike in global interest rates, significantly impacting Japan’s economy,” stressing the opposition’s responsibility.
On Prime Minister Ishiba’s political future, Kono explained, “Although the U.S.-Japan tariff negotiations have been settled, it’s still a verbal agreement. Decisions still need to be made by Prime Minister Ishiba and Economic Revitalization Minister Ryosei Akazawa (the lead negotiator for Japan) on whether to formalize it in writing or hold a summit meeting.” He argued, “If the Prime Minister justifies staying by saying ‘U.S.-Japan tariff negotiations are still ongoing,’ then the Secretary-General, who is detached from national politics, must take responsibility as the ‘party leader’ for the election defeat,” reiterating the need for the Secretary-General’s resignation.
Kono resigned as acting chairman of the party’s election committee following the Upper House election defeat. When asked about his intentions to run in the next leadership election during the programs, he dismissed the idea, saying, “It would be inappropriate for someone who has just submitted a resignation (as acting chairman) to discuss such matters.”
