Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi is facing political pressure in Tokyo after confirming that congratulatory gift catalogues were distributed to more than 300 lawmakers from the ruling Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) following its recent election victory.
The controversy centres on gift catalogues offered to party lawmakers as what Sanae Takaichi described as an expression of appreciation for their success in what she called a tough national election. In a post on X, she stated that no taxpayer funds were used and that the payments were made through political funds managed by a local LDP branch in Nara that she heads.
Speaking in parliament on Wednesday, Takaichi said the cost of each gift, including shipping and tax, was approximately 30,000 yen (around $190) per lawmaker. She added that the items were intended to support lawmakers in their future legislative work.
The issue has drawn scrutiny because of Japan’s strict political funding regulations. Under Japanese law, individuals are prohibited from making direct donations to candidates for public office, although political parties and their local chapters are permitted to provide financial support.
Opposition leaders have questioned whether the move aligns with the spirit of political funding transparency. Junya Ogawa, leader of the Centrist Reform Alliance, said the development could raise concerns among voters already sensitive to political finance issues.
The revelation comes against the backdrop of a 2023 political funding scandal involving the LDP, which contributed to the resignation of then-prime minister Fumio Kishida and heightened public demands for accountability in party financing. The episode also affected public confidence in subsequent administrations.
Local media outlet Bunshun Online reported that the catalogues were sourced from Kintetsu Department Store, which offers gift catalogues allowing recipients to select items such as consumer goods, food products or travel packages after advance payment.
The controversy has revived debate over political ethics and transparency standards within Japan’s ruling party, particularly as the LDP seeks to maintain stability following its electoral success.
