The Strategist

Former Japanese Prime Minister Abe suspected of embezzlement



12/18/2020 - 11:10



The ruling Liberal Democratic Party has made a proposal to summon former Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe to Parliament. According to Kyodo news agency, citing sources, the former prime minister is suspected of illegally using money to pay for dinner parties.



内閣官房内閣広報室
内閣官房内閣広報室
The agency explains that the aim of the party's move is to try to avoid public outrage that could undermine the credibility of Shinzo Abe's successor, Yoshihide Suga. According to interlocutors, Abe may address parliament this December 2020.

Earlier, Japan's opposition parties demanded that Abe respond to the allegations against him. The politician was accused that the group that manages his political funds spent 9 million yen (about $90,000) between 2015 and 2019 to cover part of the cost of banquets at luxury hotels. These events were attended by Abe's supporters.

Recall that Shinzo Abe resigned in September this year for health reasons. His successor is Yoshihide Suga, who previously held the key post of cabinet secretary-general in Abe’s government.

source: kyodonews.jp