Tokyo International News Agency

Former Prime Minister Yoshihiko Noda, who positions himself as a “centrist,” has sparked significant debate on social media with his response to photographic reports linking him to the World Peace and Unification Family Federation (formerly known as the Unification Church). He stated, “I have absolutely no recollection of it. I will investigate.” According to reports by Sankei Shimbun and other outlets, allegations have surfaced regarding Noda’s presence at the inaugural meeting of a support organization called “Yoshikatsukai,” where he was reportedly accompanied by Unification Church executives and influential members. Furthermore, there are claims that he was encouraged at a church facility during an election campaign with a parody song of “Star of the Giants,” “Go, Go, Yoshihiko♪.” Noda’s assertion of “no recollection” regarding these suspicions has drawn sarcastic criticism from some users, who have labeled it “amnesia” or “disrespectful to the other party.” Particular attention is...

Remarks by Yoshihiko Noda, leader of the Constitutional Democratic Party of Japan (CDP), advocating "breaking down the wall of nationality" have caused a significant stir on social media. In response to his reported statement, "It's not about 'Japanese first.' Multicultural coexistence is the path Japan should take, and we should create a society that accepts foreigners," the phrase "国籍の壁を" (wall of nationality) trended on X (formerly Twitter), drawing a flood of criticism and concern. Regarding Noda's remarks, numerous strong reactions have been voiced, including "I can't sleep for trembling," "extremely dangerous," and "will destroy Japan." Many users have questioned the true intent of his statement and its impact on Japanese citizens, asking, "Don't unilaterally abolish the nationality barrier for us Japanese," "What benefit is there for Japanese people?" and "Who benefits, a...