Key Facts
• Eriko Imai, 41, updated Instagram on July 23, 2025.
• Akiko Santo, 83, lost her seat in the July Upper House election.
• Imai referred to Santo as her “political mother” and expressed deep regret.
• Santo guided Imai into politics, serving as her mentor.
• Imai pledged to continue learning and following Santo’s example.
• The election results were challenging for the Liberal Democratic Party (LDP).
• Imai acknowledged the need for change within the LDP and herself.
• She highlighted the rapid societal changes in the Reiwa era.
• Instagram comments included both support and criticism, such as calls for transparency on a France training program.
• Hashtags used by Imai included “Akiko Santo,” “Gratitude and Respect,” and “Still in My Heart.”
Summary
Eriko Imai, a former SPEED member and current Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) Upper House member, expressed deep regret over the election loss of her mentor, Akiko Santo, in the July 2025 Upper House election. Santo, 83, whom Imai referred to as her “political mother,” had been instrumental in guiding her into politics. Imai shared her reflections on Instagram, vowing to continue learning and adhering to the principles Santo instilled in her. She also acknowledged the challenges faced by the LDP in the election and emphasized the need for adaptability in the rapidly changing Reiwa era. While many Instagram users offered support, others criticized Imai, demanding explanations regarding a France training program. Despite the mixed reactions, Imai reiterated her gratitude and respect for Santo, using hashtags to honor her mentor’s legacy.
