Ishiba Cabinet Appoints Former Idols as Parliamentary Secretaries

TOKYO, Nov 15 (News On Japan) - The Ishiba Cabinet announced its appointments for vice ministers and parliamentary secretaries on November 13th, selecting Akiko Ikuina and Eriko Imai, both former idols and current members of the House of Councillors.

Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba emphasized a commitment to humble and action-driven governance. The selections notably excluded lawmakers involved in political funding scandals.

Ikuina, a former "Onyanko Club" member, was named parliamentary secretary for foreign affairs, while Imai, a former member of "SPEED," was appointed parliamentary secretary for the Cabinet Office and Reconstruction. Both expressed their commitment to fulfilling their roles, despite Imai having faced past criticism over a controversial SNS post.

Public reactions to the appointments were mixed. Some criticized the choices as favoring public recognition over political expertise, while others viewed them as a way to increase political engagement among younger audiences.

Political analysts noted that the Ishiba Cabinet had limited options due to recent election losses and the exclusion of scandal-linked lawmakers. This led to a narrower selection pool, with some appointees themselves acknowledging their lack of experience.

Source: ANN

Hotel Prices Surge in Osaka Just 17 Days Before Expo Opening

With only 17 days until the Osaka-Kansai Expo opens, excitement is building as pavilion details continue to be announced, including features from the Japan Gas Association and exhibits showcasing Australia’s natural environment and interactive energy games.

Foreign Tourists Praise Japan's Tourist Centers for Over-the-Top Hospitality

Foreign tourists in Japan are showering praise on local tourist information centers for their warm and detailed support—sometimes even considered 'overly helpful.' These centers assist visitors with everything from translation hiccups and complex train transfers to finding hidden scenic spots, cultural experiences, and rental services.

Tariffs Expected to Deal Major Blow to Japanese Automakers

The Trump administration announced on March 26th that it will impose an additional 25% tariff on imported automobiles and key auto parts. According to the proclamation signed by President Trump, the tariffs are set to take effect on April 3rd and will apply to all imported vehicles, including those from Japan.

Memorial Held in Zamami to Mark 80 Years Since Mass Suicides in Battle of Okinawa

A memorial ceremony was held in Zamami Village on March 26th to mark 80 years since the residents of the Kerama Islands were driven to mass suicide during the Battle of Okinawa, following the first U.S. landing on the islands in 1945.

Cherry Blossom Season Begins in Nagoya, Slightly Behind Schedule

Cherry blossoms began blooming in Nagoya on March 26th, according to an announcement by the Nagoya District Meteorological Observatory, two days later than the average year but two days earlier than last year.

MEDIA CHANNELS

MORE Politics NEWS

Court Rejects Residents' Lawsuit to Halt Mega Solar Project in Nara

The Nara District Court on March 25th dismissed a lawsuit filed by residents seeking to halt the construction of a large-scale solar power facility in the town of Heguri, Nara Prefecture.

Pension Levels Expected to Decline by 20 Percent in 30 Years

Japan is facing a pivotal moment in pension reform as the government prepares to revise its system for the first time in five years. With a shrinking workforce and an aging population, the pension system is under pressure, prompting new proposals that could impact millions.

Japan, China, South Korea FMs agree on future-oriented cooperation

The foreign ministers of Japan, China and South Korea have agreed to promote future-oriented cooperation in tackling common issues, and accelerate arrangements to hold a trilateral summit in Japan as early as possible. (NHK)

Third-Party Panel Releases Damning Report on Hyogo Governor Power Harassment

A third-party panel investigating allegations of power harassment against Hyogo Governor Motohiko Saito submitted its findings to the prefectural government on March 19th, concluding that ten instances of his conduct constituted workplace harassment.

Mystery Surrounds Suspect in Tachibana Assault

A recent incident involving the attack on Takashi Tachibana has raised concerns over the lack of available information about the suspect, Miyanishi. Despite the rapid flow of information in the digital age, very little has surfaced regarding his background beyond his residence and employment status.

PM Ishiba Under Fire Over 100,000 Yen Vouchers

The controversy surrounding Prime Minister Ishiba’s 100,000-yen voucher program continued to face scrutiny in the Diet on Monday, with opposition parties intensifying their criticism. Within the ruling party, concerns are mounting that Ishiba may be an electoral liability.

Okinawa Lawmakers Deadlocked Over Washington Office Budget

Okinawa’s ruling and opposition lawmakers failed to reach a consensus on March 13th regarding revisions to the 2025 fiscal general budget, with the Washington office’s operational expenses emerging as a key point of contention. The debate remained deadlocked.

Kawasaki Heavy Delivers Japan’s Largest Submarine

A delivery ceremony was held for the 'Raigei,' one of Japan’s largest submarines, built at a cost of approximately 702 billion yen.

< 2 3 4 5 >