Key Facts
• June 12: Ishin’s Maehara addressed media on LDP’s Moriyama’s remarks.
• June 11: Maehara cited Moriyama’s statement during a debate with PM Ishiba.
• Moriyama allegedly linked gas tax repeal to revisiting social security talks.
• Moriyama refuted Maehara’s interpretation, claiming it misrepresented his intent.
• Maehara based his debate question on a memo from Secretary-General Iwaya.
• Maehara emphasized Ishin’s commitment to free education and lower insurance premiums.
• Maehara acknowledged PM Ishiba’s sincere response during the debate.
Summary
On June 12, Maehara, co-leader of Ishin, addressed a controversy involving LDP Secretary-General Moriyama’s remarks on social security reform talks. During a June 11 debate with PM Ishiba, Maehara claimed Moriyama suggested revisiting the talks if the opposition jointly proposed repealing the gas tax. Moriyama denied this, stating his intent was misrepresented. Maehara clarified his question was based on a memo from Ishin’s Secretary-General Iwaya. Despite the dispute, Maehara reiterated Ishin’s focus on free education and reduced insurance premiums, urging adherence to these priorities. He also noted PM Ishiba’s sincere engagement during the debate.
