Latest news with #CDPJ
Yomiuri Shimbun
4 days ago
- Business
- Yomiuri Shimbun
No-Confidence Motion Unlikely as Japan-U.S. Talks Stall;CDPJ Calls Trump's Tariff's a ‘National Crisis'
Yomiuri Shimbun file photo Constitutional Democratic Party of Japan leader Yoshihiko Noda Prospects for the submission of a no-confidence motion against the Cabinet by the Constitutional Democratic Party of Japan have dimmed as the Japan-U.S. summit in Canada on Monday failed to reach an agreement on a review of U.S. tariff measures. Questioned by reporters in Tokyo on Tuesday regarding the submission of a no-confidence motion, CDPJ leader Yoshihiko Noda said only that he would make a 'comprehensive judgment.' Noda has previously referred to the ongoing tariff negotiations with the United States as a 'national crisis' and indicated that the progress of the talks would be a key factor in his decision on submitting the motion. With the latest Japan-U.S. summit failing to reach an agreement, and some new U.S. tariffs whose implementation has been suspended due to take effect on July 9, the 'national crisis' is expected to persist for the foreseeable future. Voices within the CDPJ therefore argue that now is not a time when a no-confidence motion can be submitted, according to a veteran CDPJ member. Noda told reporters that he intends to thoroughly question Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba about the progress of the tariff negotiations during talks between the leaders of the ruling and opposition parties scheduled for Thursday. Meanwhile, Democratic Party for the People leader Yuichiro Tamaki expressed skepticism about the Japan-U.S. summit's outcome at a press conference, saying: 'My impression is that there was no substantive outcome. Can any agreement be reached by the [July 9] deadline?'
Yomiuri Shimbun
14-06-2025
- Politics
- Yomiuri Shimbun
Japan's Upper House Election Date Likely July 20; CDPJ Inclined to Forgo No-confidence Motion
Yomiuri Shimbun file photo The Diet Building in Chiyoda Ward, Tokyo The government and ruling parties have decided to hold the House of Councillors election on July 20, with official campaigning to begin on July 3, sources said. The plan will be approved by the Cabinet soon. The officials concluded that it will be unnecessary to extend the current Diet session, which is scheduled to end on June 22, even if the Constitutional Democratic Party of Japan submits a no-confidence motion against Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba's Cabinet during session. The Public Offices Election Law stipulates that the upper house election must be held within a 24-to-30-day period after the Diet session ends. If the current Diet session ends on June 22, the voting day will be finalized for July 20, which is a Sunday in the middle of a three-day weekend. According to the Internal Affairs and Communications Ministry, this will be the first time that a national election, excluding by-elections, will take place on the second day of a three-day weekend since 1952, when such record-keeping began. The CDPJ chief Yoshihiko Noda is believed to be inclined to forgo the submission of the no-confidence motion. Many within the government and the ruling parties believe that the largest opposition is unlikely to submit it. If the CDPJ does not submit the no-confidence motion, the Diet session is expected to end smoothly. If the motion is submitted, opposition parties might be able to pass it under the minority government. However, the ruling parties believe it is possible the motion would be unable to garner enough votes thanks to the Japan Innovation Party, with which the ruling parties continue to hold policy negotiations. Noda met CDPJ Secretary General Junya Ogawa and other party executives on Friday night to discuss how to deal with a no-confidence motion. They agreed to make a final decision after carefully looking at the progress of the Japan-U.S. tariff negotiations, according to sources.
Yomiuri Shimbun
13-06-2025
- Business
- Yomiuri Shimbun
Opposition Seeks Quick Political Fix Via Tax Cuts; History Shows This Tactic Does Not Always Work
The Yomiuri Shimbun Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba, left, and Constitutional Democratic Party of Japan leader Yoshihiko Noda engage in a party leaders' debate at the Diet on May 21. As the House of Councillors election approaches this summer, the debate over a consumption tax cut is intensifying among the ruling and opposition parties. On the evening of May 8, following a dinner with Liberal Democratic Party Secretary General Hiroshi Moriyama, Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba, who is also the LDP president, expressed his determination not to cut the consumption tax despite calls for such a cut as a measure against rising commodity prices. Although the prime minister had previously leaned towards the idea of a tax cut to support those suffering from high prices, he acknowledged that tax revenue is essential for funding social security. In a meeting on May 12, he remarked, 'If politicians start making promises just to please the public, the country will perish.' Moriyama, who is also an advisor to the LDP's research commission on the tax system, shared the prime minister's negative view on tax cuts. They agreed that the LDP would not pursue discussions on this issue. In contrast, Yoshihiko Noda, leader of the Constitutional Democratic Party of Japan, has taken a stance in favor of a consumption tax cut. In 2012, while he was prime minister, Noda reached an agreement with the LDP and Komeito on a 'comprehensive reform of social security and taxes,' which included a gradual increase in the consumption tax rate. Although he is recognized as a fiscal conservative, Noda has failed to quell the growing support for tax cuts within his own party. The CDPJ's decision to support a consumption tax cut was also influenced by the fact that other opposition parties are calling for one. On April 25, the CDPJ decided to include a proposal in its campaign pledges for the upper house election aimed at reducing the 8% consumption tax rate on groceries to 0% for one year. Noda claimed that they need to address the struggles of the current generation, but this position is inconsistent with his previous political beliefs. Debates over taxation have significantly influenced political affairs throughout history. The tax system is a basic pillar of government, but many politicians approach it with such dread that they call it 'kimon.' Literally meaning 'demon gate,' this term describes a direction — northeast — from which misfortune was traditionally said to arrive. One prominent figure in the discussion of taxation and politics is Sadanori Yamanaka, who was instrumental in the introduction of the consumption tax as the chairman of the LDP's research commission on the tax system. In June 1988, the commission approved the 'Outline for Fundamental Tax Reform,' which included a 3% consumption tax to take effect in April 1989. The administration of Prime Minister Noboru Takeshita passed the law to introduce the consumption tax, but Takeshita himself resigned in June 1989 amid the Recruit scandal. Yamanaka subsequently lost his seat in the House of Representatives election in February 1990. The Democratic Party of Japan, under Noda's leadership, also faced defeat in the lower house election of 2012 and fell from power in the wake of its decision to increase the consumption tax rate. Reflecting on the political sacrifices of the past, it's likely that many politicians believe tax cuts are advantageous for their election prospects. However, evidence suggests that appeals to populism through easy tax cuts do not guarantee electoral support. Former Prime Minister Fumio Kishida attempted to break a political deadlock with a fixed-amount tax cut, but it ultimately failed to buoy his administration. Kishida had to give up on running in the 2024 LDP presidential election. Overly simplistic calls for tax cuts can undermine a politician's ability to manage taxpayer money effectively. For voters to grasp the necessary burdens, it's crucial that politicians build public trust, demonstrating that they are worthy of being entrusted with tax revenue. In this regard, it is not certain that Ishiba and the LDP will be able to gain this kind of public trust, given their past stance on issues such as politics and money scandals. During a debate among leaders of different parties on May 21, the topic of the consumption tax was prominently discussed. Noda advocated for 'a responsible tax cut' while Ishiba emphasized his commitment to being responsible for the future. Ishiba cited Takeshita as one of the politicians he admires. Moriyama, who regards Yamanaka as his political mentor, said in a June 2 speech that 'statesmen have always recognized the importance of the consumption tax, social security, and the need for public understanding.' In the upcoming upper house election, each party has a responsibility to engage in an honest discussion about the burdens and benefits they aim to propose. Voters will need to determine which party is truly responsible. The election outcome will likely shape not only the fate of the Ishiba Cabinet but also the broader trajectory of politics in Japan. Political Pulse appears every Saturday. Michitaka Kaiya Michitaka Kaiya is a deputy editor in the Political News Department of The Yomiuri Shimbun.
The Star
12-06-2025
- Business
- The Star
Japan party leaders face off over no-confidence motion; Opposition hesitant amid tariff negotiations with United States
Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba, (right), and Constitutional Democratic Party leader Yoshihiko Noda participate in the party leader debate at the Diet in Tokyo on Wednesday (June 11, 2025). - Photo: The Yomiuri Shimbun TOKYO: A tense standoff took place during a debate between party leaders in the Diet on Wednesday (June 11) as the ruling Liberal Democratic Party and the main opposition party grappled with a potential no-confidence motion against the Cabinet of Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba. Ishiba, who also serves as LDP president, and Yoshihiko Noda, president of the Constitutional Democratic Party of Japan, waged a war of nerves at the final party leader debate of the current Diet session. Noda took a confrontational stance, despite appearing inclined to forgo the no-confidence motion, but he lacked vigor. This highlighted his struggle to keep the CDPJ at an appropriate distance from the government and the ruling bloc. Arguments lacked depth During the debate, Noda emphasised measures to combat rising prices. He asserted that the approach taken by Ishiba Cabinet's tended to 'understand the issues but either postpones [taking steps] or does nothing.' However, Noda noticeably lacked depth in the pursuit of individual issues. He pressed for the consumption tax rate on food to be reduced to 0%, which is one of the CDPJ's campaign pledges for the House of Councillors election. However, Ishiba rejected a possible tax cut, saying: 'Mr. Noda understands the significance of the consumption tax better than anyone. I respect him as a politician.' Noda questioned Ishiba about the Japan-US tariff negotiations, asking, 'Is there a prospect of reaching an agreement on main points?' Ishiba remained unruffled and responded: 'We are making progress one step at a time. Ultimately, [US] President [Donald Trump] will make the decision.' Noda wavering Noda failed to fully commit to a confrontational stance, as he hesitated about submitting a no-confidence motion. The CDPJ has submitted no-confidence motions in ordinary Diet sessions every year since 2018, except in 2020, when priority was given to Covid-19 countermeasures. Under a minority government, the opposition can pass such a motion if it is united. Normally, this would be a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for the opposition to bring about a change of government. Noda had hinted at submitting a motion but began to waver, questioning whether such a political decision was appropriate amid ongoing tariff negotiations with the United States, which is considered a national crisis. If Japan-US tariff negotiations continue even after their bilateral summit meeting — scheduled on the sideline of the Group of Seven summit from Sunday to Tuesday — the CDPJ could face public criticism if a political vacuum emerges from the passage of a no-confidence motion. Furthermore, if the tariff negotiations are successful, that would also make it difficult for the party to submit such a motion. On the other hand, there are simmering voices within the CDPJ to demonstrate a more aggressive and confrontational stance by submitting the motion. Noda had even told aides before the party leader debate that he was genuinely struggling with the decision of whether to submit the motion. Avoiding dissolution If a no-confidence motion is submitted, some within the government and the LDP believe the House of Representatives should be dissolved without a vote on the motion. But junior coalition partner Komeito opposes holding simultaneous elections for both houses. Nevertheless, if a no-confidence motion passes, Ishiba would have no choice but to either dissolve the lower house or see his Cabinet resign en masse. Many within the ruling party believe there would be no option but dissolution if it passed. The prime minister wants to avoid the political vacuum caused by dissolution, and intends to courteously respond to talks between the ruling and opposition party leaders on tariff negotiations around the time of the G7 Summit. Ishiba is trying to save face for Noda while hoping the CDPJ will not submit the motion. - The Yomiuri Shimbun
Yomiuri Shimbun
12-06-2025
- Business
- Yomiuri Shimbun
Japan Party Leaders Face Off Over No-Confidence Motion; Opposition Hesitant Amid Tariff Negotiations With U.S.
Yomiuri Shimbun photos Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba, right, and Constitutional Democratic Party leader Yoshihiko Noda participate in the party leader debate at the Diet in Tokyo on Wednesday. A tense standoff took place during a debate between party leaders in the Diet on Wednesday as the ruling Liberal Democratic Party and the main opposition party grappled with a potential no-confidence motion against the Cabinet of Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba. Ishiba, who also serves as LDP president, and Yoshihiko Noda, president of the Constitutional Democratic Party of Japan, waged a war of nerves at the final party leader debate of the current Diet session. Noda took a confrontational stance, despite appearing inclined to forgo the no-confidence motion, but he lacked vigor. This highlighted his struggle to keep the CDPJ at an appropriate distance from the government and the ruling bloc. Arguments lacked depth During the debate, Noda emphasized measures to combat rising prices. He asserted that the approach taken by Ishiba Cabinet's tended to 'understand the issues but either postpones [taking steps] or does nothing.' However, Noda noticeably lacked depth in the pursuit of individual issues. He pressed for the consumption tax rate on food to be reduced to 0%, which is one of the CDPJ's campaign pledges for the House of Councillors election. However, Ishiba rejected a possible tax cut, saying: 'Mr. Noda understands the significance of the consumption tax better than anyone. I respect him as a politician.' Noda questioned Ishiba about the Japan-U.S. tariff negotiations, asking, 'Is there a prospect of reaching an agreement on main points?' Ishiba remained unruffled and responded: 'We are making progress one step at a time. Ultimately, [U.S.] President [Donald Trump] will make the decision.' Noda wavering Noda failed to fully commit to a confrontational stance, as he hesitated about submitting a no-confidence motion. The CDPJ has submitted no-confidence motions in ordinary Diet sessions every year since 2018, except in 2020, when priority was given to COVID-19 countermeasures. Under a minority government, the opposition can pass such a motion if it is united. Normally, this would be a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for the opposition to bring about a change of government. Noda had hinted at submitting a motion but began to waver, questioning whether such a political decision was appropriate amid ongoing tariff negotiations with the United States, which is considered a national crisis. If Japan-U.S. tariff negotiations continue even after their bilateral summit meeting — scheduled on the sideline of the Group of Seven summit from Sunday to Tuesday — the CDPJ could face public criticism if a political vacuum emerges from the passage of a no-confidence motion. Furthermore, if the tariff negotiations are successful, that would also make it difficult for the party to submit such a motion. On the other hand, there are simmering voices within the CDPJ to demonstrate a more aggressive and confrontational stance by submitting the motion. Noda had even told aides before the party leader debate that he was genuinely struggling with the decision of whether to submit the motion. Avoiding dissolution If a no-confidence motion is submitted, some within the government and the LDP believe the House of Representatives should be dissolved without a vote on the motion. But junior coalition partner Komeito opposes holding simultaneous elections for both houses. Nevertheless, if a no-confidence motion passes, Ishiba would have no choice but to either dissolve the lower house or see his Cabinet resign en masse. Many within the ruling party believe there would be no option but dissolution if it passed. The prime minister wants to avoid the political vacuum caused by dissolution, and intends to courteously respond to talks between the ruling and opposition party leaders on tariff negotiations around the time of the G7 Summit. Ishiba is trying to save face for Noda while hoping the CDPJ will not submit the motion.
