Key Facts
• July 5: Prime Minister Ishiba addressed 750 attendees in Joetsu City.
• Audience kept over 20 meters away, separated by barriers for security.
• Metal detectors and baggage checks conducted; stickers issued for cleared attendees.
• Police monitored from rooftops and used binoculars for surveillance.
• July 3: Similar security measures in Kobe City for campaign speeches.
• July 5: Opposition leader Noda spoke in Matsudo City with 10-meter audience distance.
• Protective blankets and rooftop police deployed at opposition events.
• 9,700 security plans reviewed by police in 2025; 7,200 required revisions.
• Nationwide inspections of 900 potential venues conducted for safety.
• 2023: Former PM Kishida faced a bomb attack; security tightened since.
• March 2025: NHK Party leader attacked during a photo session.
• Protesters disrupted campaign events in Osaka, holding signs and shouting slogans.
Summary
In the lead-up to the July 20 Upper House elections, security measures for campaign events have intensified, reflecting heightened concerns since the assassination of former Prime Minister Shinzo Abe three years ago. Prime Minister Ishiba addressed 750 attendees in Joetsu City on July 5, with the audience kept over 20 meters away for safety. Similar precautions were observed at other campaign events, including opposition rallies. Police have reviewed 9,700 security plans in 2025, revising 7,200, and conducted inspections at 900 venues nationwide. Recent incidents, such as the 2023 bomb attack on former PM Kishida and the March 2025 assault on NHK Party leader, have further underscored the need for stringent security. Despite understanding from some attendees, others expressed disappointment over the distance from speakers. Protests and disruptions at campaign events have also added to the tense atmosphere.
