Assailant Sentenced to 10 Years for Attempted Murder of Japan’s Prime Minister
Background
On July 8, 2023, a man identified as Ryuji Kimura, 25, was arrested at a campaign event in western Japan for attempting to kill Japan’s then-Prime Minister Fumio Kishida with a homemade pipe bomb. Kishida was unharmed in the attack, but the incident sent shockwaves through the country and raised concerns about the safety of political leaders in Japan.
The Attack
The attack occurred during a campaign event in Nara, where Kishida was running for re-election as prime minister. Kimura, who was in his early 20s at the time of the attack, was seen approaching the stage and attempting to throw a pipe bomb at Kishida. He was quickly apprehended by security personnel and taken into custody.
Trial and Sentence
The trial of Ryuji Kimura began in late 2023 and concluded in early 2024. Prosecutors sought a 15-year sentence, while Kimura’s defense team argued for a three-year sentence, citing his denial of any intention to kill Kishida.
On Wednesday, a Wakayama District Court sentenced Kimura to 10 years in prison, citing the significant sense of anxiety caused to society by targeting the incumbent prime minister. Judge Keiko Fukushima emphasized the need for severe punishment to prevent copycat attacks and to protect the electoral system, which is the basis of democracy.
Investigation and Evidence
During the investigation, police found suspected gunpowder, pipe-like objects, and tools at Kimura’s home. At the trial, Kimura’s lawyers argued that his purpose was to gain public attention and that his charge should be "inflicting injury" rather than attempted murder. Prosecutors, however, described the incident as a "malicious terror act" and argued that Kimura knew his explosive was lethal.
Background and Motivation
Previous reports suggest that Kimura had previously filed a lawsuit challenging the minimum age for political candidates and the requirement that they have at least three million yen ($19,700) to run for national office. Under Japanese law, candidates for upper house elections must be 30 or older, while the minimum age to run for parliament’s lower house is 25.
Conclusion
The sentencing of Ryuji Kimura to 10 years in prison serves as a reminder of the risks and challenges faced by political leaders in Japan. The incident highlights the need for continued vigilance and measures to ensure the safety and security of public figures in the country.
FAQs
- What was the motive behind the attack?
- The motive behind the attack is not entirely clear, but it is believed to be linked to Kimura’s dissatisfaction with the political system and his desire to gain public attention.
- What was the outcome of the trial?
- The trial concluded with a 10-year sentence for Kimura, who was convicted of attempted murder.
- What is the minimum age to run for office in Japan?
- The minimum age to run for parliament’s lower house is 25, while the minimum age to run for upper house elections is 30.