Two days after former Prime Minister Shinzo Abe (67) was shot dead, the Japanese go to the polls for the senate elections.
Abe was shot dead in the city of Nara on Friday while speaking on behalf of the ruling Liberal Democratic Party (LDP). The former prime minister was attacked by 41-year-old Tetsuya Yamagami, who used a handmade firearm.
ALSO WATCH. What do we know about Shinzo Abe’s killer?
Senate elections will be held in Japan two days after the drama. According to the polls, Prime Minister Fumio Kishida’s Liberal Democratic Party can count on a clear victory, as can coalition partner Komeito. Both parties now also have a majority in the Senate, as well as in the House of Representatives.
A victory would strengthen Prime Minister Kishida’s position as the Japanese economy must recover from the corona crisis and rising energy and food prices. Kishida is seeking greater investment in the country’s defenses in the face of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine and China’s efforts to increase power in the region.
Senate elections are held every three years for half of the 248 seats in the House. The polling stations close at 1 pm (Belgian time).
How exceptional is a murder of a Japanese politician with a gun? †
IN PICTURE. The moment Shinzo Abe’s (67) speech turned into a drama
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