TOKYO - Former Prime Minister Tomiichi Murayama, who served as Japan's 81st prime minister and led the country through major events including the 1995 Kobe earthquake, passed away on the morning of July 14th at a hospital in Oita City. He was 101 years old.
Murayama, known for his trademark bushy eyebrows and affectionately nicknamed "Ton-chan," was born in Oita City in 1924 and first elected to the House of Representatives in 1972 as a member of the then-Japan Socialist Party. In 1994, he became prime minister through an unprecedented coalition formed by the Liberal Democratic Party, the Japan Socialist Party, and New Party Sakigake — a political realignment that stunned the nation.
"Because this is a cabinet led by the Socialist Party, I imagine there is considerable anxiety both domestically and internationally," Murayama said at the time.
During his tenure, Murayama faced some of Japan’s most significant postwar crises, including the Great Hanshin-Awaji Earthquake in 1995 and the deadly Tokyo subway sarin gas attack by the Aum Shinrikyo cult. He is widely remembered for issuing the landmark "Murayama Statement" in 1995 to mark the 50th anniversary of the end of World War II, in which he expressed deep remorse and offered a heartfelt apology for Japan’s wartime aggression.
"Our country, through a mistaken national policy, caused tremendous damage and suffering to many countries, especially to the people of Asia, through colonial rule and aggression," Murayama declared. The statement became a cornerstone of Japan’s postwar diplomacy and remains one of the defining moments of his administration.
Murayama also played a pivotal role in the enactment of the Atomic Bomb Survivors’ Support Law, reinforcing his legacy as a politician devoted to peace and social welfare. Known for his approachable personality, he inspired merchandise featuring his likeness and was affectionately called "Ton-chan" by supporters and colleagues alike.
In January 1996, however, Murayama unexpectedly announced his resignation, saying he had decided to step down "after seeing the New Year’s blue sky." Roughly four years later, he retired from politics altogether but continued to make his voice heard, joining protests against national security legislation even in his later years.
When interviewed by FNN in 2024, shortly before his 100th birthday, Murayama said he never missed his daily walks. Reflecting on his life, he remarked, "I never imagined I would become prime minister. Looking back, my life has been shaped by chance encounters."
News of his death prompted extra editions of local newspapers in his hometown of Oita. A person who was by his side in his final moments said, "His condition suddenly worsened around 10 a.m., and he passed away peacefully."
On the streets, residents expressed sorrow. "It’s so sad. He felt like a kind grandfather," one said.
Tributes also poured in from the political world. Social Democratic Party leader Mizuho Fukushima said, "Whenever Ton-chan told me to hang in there, it gave me strength. I feel an overwhelming sense of loss."
Constitutional Democratic Party leader Katsuya Okada described Murayama’s government as "the most surprising administration I’ve experienced as a politician," adding, "I had deep respect for him as a senior prime minister."
Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba also expressed his condolences, saying, "I am deeply shocked and saddened by the sudden news of his passing."
Source: FNN
