Key Facts
• July 3, Kanya Munenori addressed concerns about the ‘Japan First’ slogan.
• He denied claims of anti-foreigner sentiment, emphasizing rule creation to avoid chaos.
• Munenori clarified the party’s stance against unrestricted foreign labor influx.
• He urged against stereotyping foreigners as criminals, promoting cultural respect.
• Munenori rejected labeling specific nations, like China, as enemies to avoid conflict.
• Criticized Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba’s remarks on foreign workers learning Japanese.
• Munenori called Ishiba’s comments problematic and urged a change in perspective.
• The party plans to include ‘popular sovereignty’ in its next constitutional draft.
• Munenori noted increased public support, with attendance doubling since June.
• The remarks followed the official start of the Upper House election campaign.
Summary
Kanya Munenori, leader of the Sansei Party, addressed concerns about the party’s ‘Japan First’ slogan on July 3, denying any anti-foreigner or exclusionary intent. He emphasized the need for clear rules to manage foreign labor influx and prevent societal disruption. Munenori urged against stereotyping foreigners as criminals and highlighted the importance of preserving Japanese culture for both citizens and foreign visitors. He also criticized Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba’s remarks on foreign workers learning Japanese, calling them problematic. Munenori clarified that the party does not label specific nations, such as China, as enemies, to avoid fostering conflict. Additionally, he announced plans to include ‘popular sovereignty’ in the next draft of the party’s proposed constitution. Public support for the party has reportedly grown, with attendance at events doubling since June. These statements were made as the Upper House election campaign officially began.
