Japan's state minister of finance resigns over tax delinquency

TOKYO, Nov 14 (NHK) - Japan's government has approved the resignation of State Minister of Finance Kanda Kenji, who repeatedly failed to pay taxes for his company.

The Cabinet gave the approval on Monday after Kanda handed in his resignation. Prime Minister Kishida Fumio has decided to replace him on the grounds that the issue should not stall Diet deliberations.

Kanda, a Lower House lawmaker and certified tax accountant, admitted in a Diet session last week that his company had repeatedly been in arrears for property taxes.

He said the tax authorities have seized the company's land and buildings four times. He offered an apology.

His admission comes after a weekly magazine reported on the tax delinquency.

Opposition parties have called for his resignation. Some ruling coalition officials have also voiced concern that the issue could affect Diet proceedings.

The government plans to name his successor on Monday. ...continue reading

Source: ANNnewsCH

Rodent Infestation A Growing Concern Across Japan

Reports of rodent infestation have surged nationwide in recent years, posing increasing challenges for homeowners. The issue, which is particularly evident during the year-end season, has left many families struggling to find effective solutions.

The only child in Japan's 'puppet village'

Kuranosuke Kato is the only child in the Japanese village of Ichinono, a community that has become so depopulated that locals joke it is home to more puppets than people. Two-year-old Kato is the first child being raised in the village in two decades. (South China Morning Post)

Foreign Residents in Japan Exceed 3.5 Million, Tokyo's Indian Community Thrives

This year, the number of foreign residents in Japan surpassed 3.5 million, marking a record high. In Tokyo’s "Little India," there may be clues on how to build a harmonious coexistence.

Flu Infections Reach Alarm Levels in Tokyo for the First Time in Six Years

Influenza infections in Tokyo have reached alarm levels for the first time in six years. As the virus spreads, restaurants and hotels are struggling with a surge in last-minute cancellations during their peak earning season.

Ishiba to Move Into Official Residence Amid Ghost Rumors

Prime Minister Ishiba, who plans to move into the official residence as early as December 28th, addressed rumors that the residence is haunted, stating, "I'm from the Oba-Q generation, so I'm not afraid."

MEDIA CHANNELS

MORE Politics NEWS

Ishiba to Move Into Official Residence Amid Ghost Rumors

Japan’s push for a dual-use defence startup ecosystem

Japan is revolutionising its defence innovation by creating a dual-use startup ecosystem that integrates civilian technologies into defence research. (East Asia Forum)

New Visa Rules Expected to Enhance Japan-China Relations

Japan's Ministry of Foreign Affairs has announced a decision to ease visa requirements for Chinese nationals visiting Japan.

Japan to remain 3rd largest financial contributor to UN in 2025-27

Japan is set to shoulder over 6.9 percent of the total financial contributions by member countries to support the United Nations from 2025 to 2027. It remains the third largest contributor following the United States and China, with the latter's share rising to almost on par with the US. (NHK)

Shared Protestant Faith Could Link Ishiba and Trump in Upcoming Talks

Prime Minister Ishiba attended a Christmas service on Sunday morning, December 22, at a Protestant church in Tokyo. As discussions are underway to arrange a meeting with U.S. President-elect Trump next month, their shared Protestant background may serve as a point of connection.