Daichi Suzuki, a former Olympic gold medalist in the 100m backstroke at the 1988 Seoul Games and the first head of Japan’s Sports Agency, entered the National Diet as a newly elected Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) lawmaker. He said he feels a great sense of responsibility and wants to promote the role of sports in diplomacy and society. Although he won the most votes in his district, the LDP lost many seats nationwide. With a serious expression, he said, “I want to work hard to regain public trust.”
Haruo Kitamura, a well-known lawyer and media commentator, also entered parliament as a new member of the conservative Japan First Party (日本保守党). He was seen smiling in front of the Diet building alongside party leader Naoki Hyakuta, who was also elected for the first time. Kitamura said he wants to focus on foreigner-related issues. “As a lawyer, I worked to win over judges. Now, as a lawmaker, I want to win over the people with my actions and messages,” he said.
Renhō, a veteran politician from the Constitutional Democratic Party (CDP), returned to national politics after losing the Tokyo governor’s race last year. Now starting her fifth term in the House of Councillors, she told reporters, “I want to go back to basics and do my best again.” She added that over the past year, she listened to many people and realized how hard it is for vulnerable voices to reach the national level. “I want to make sure those voices are heard in the Diet,” she said.
by MagazineKey4532