Tokyo International News Agency

An unusual incident unfolded at the Social Democratic Party (SDP) press conference following its leadership election. As the new party leader was announced, Yuko Otsubaki, a former Deputy Leader and one of the candidates, protested being denied an opportunity to speak and walked out of the conference. This 'angry exit' caused a significant stir on social media, exposing deep-seated internal conflicts within the party. During the press conference, Ms. Otsubaki reportedly attempted to speak from her seat, stating, "I would like candidates to be treated more equally" and "I think this is terrible." However, she was cut off by the moderator and not given the floor. In response, Ms. Otsubaki expressed strong dissatisfaction, stood up, and left the conference room. Party leader Mizuho Fukushima, who was seated next to her, reportedly remained silent throughout the situation, offering no clear comment. Following this incident, criticism mounted against Ms. Fukushim...

Kunio Arakaki, Vice Leader of the Social Democratic Party (SDP) and its sole member in the House of Representatives (representing Okinawa District 2), has firmed up his intention to leave the party, it was learned on November 2. Multiple sources indicate that Mr. Arakaki mailed his resignation on October 31, but it reportedly has not yet been accepted by the party. Mr. Arakaki is expected to hold a press conference on the afternoon of the 2nd to formally announce his departure. Mr. Arakaki first won election in the 2021 House of Representatives election, running from Okinawa District 2. He is currently serving his second term. Within the party, he has held key positions, including Vice Leader, and has acted as the party's public face in the House of Representatives. The background to this departure is said to be a strong sense of crisis regarding the current state of the SDP, including perceived limitations in expanding party influence, dissatisfaction with Party Leader Mizuho Fu...

Actor and television personality La Salle Ishii (69), who is running in the upcoming House of Councillors election from the Social Democratic Party (SDP) in the proportional representation block, delivered his campaign kick-off speech at JR Shinjuku Station's South Exit in Tokyo on July 3. His statement, "There is no first or second when it comes to humans," has garnered significant attention on social media, sparking a fierce debate as an antithesis to certain political claims. La Salle Ishii expressed concern over recent nationalistic claims such as "Japanese First." In his speech, he stated, "There is no first or second for humans," and "It's fine to accept people even if they are different. If the strong help the weak, and the wealthy help the poor just a little, things will get better." He emphasized a stance that values mutual aid and diversity. He also articulated the significance of the Social Democratic Party, saying, "If th...