On February 9, former Prime Minister Ishiba Sho gave an interview to the Japan Sanin Central Television, saying: "It is important to evaluate 'achievements,' and I think Prime Minister Takahashi is most aware of this. Although (the Liberal Democratic Party) has gained numerous seats, this does not mean that they can act recklessly."
"There should be sufficient discussions within the party on important policies such as consumption tax reduction and the lifting of restrictions on arms exports," which served as a warning to the Takahashi government.
According to multiple media reports, former Japanese Prime Minister Ishiba Sho publicly warned the current Prime Minister Takahashi Asa in the aftermath of the recent House of Representatives election, pointing out that the ruling coalition's overwhelming victory does not mean she can "do whatever she wants." He viewed the election results as a "trust" from the people towards the Takahashi cabinet. However, this trust does not equate to granting her permission to act freely, and the majority of seats does not mean she can "do whatever she wants."
Ishiba sharply criticized Takahashi's proposed tax reduction policy, arguing that reducing taxes without clear alternative sources of funding would undermine the finances, lead to yen depreciation and price increases, and said, "Even elementary school students understand this principle."
He pointed out that major policies such as amending the "Three Principles on Nuclear Weapons" and the "Three Principles on Arms Exports" had not been adequately discussed before the election.
This warning reveals some dynamics within the Japanese political arena:
Ishiba, as a senior figure within the Liberal Democratic Party, expressed concerns about the potential for Takahashi to quickly push forward controversial policies using her significant advantage, reflecting an internal balancing voice within the party.
The warning directly addressed core issues such as tax cuts and security policies, indicating differing views within the Liberal Democratic Party on specific policy paths.
As Ishiba said, the election victory is just the beginning. How the Takahashi cabinet handles economic and social challenges, as well as the domestic and international reactions to its accelerated right-wing political policies, will be the focus of observation in the coming period.
Original: toutiao.com/article/1856744288869376/
Statement: This article represents the views of the author.