Money-politics scandals smolder in new Japanese Cabinet

With the ruling parties' overwhelming victory in the Dec14 lower house election having put wind in its sails, the third Cabinet of Prime Minister Shinzo Abe has started.

Although it seems to be getting under way in a stable manner, a money-and-politics scandal is smoldering in the Cabinet even after the replacement of former Defence Minister Akinori Eto, who was embroiled in a political funds scandal.

The Cabinet also has piles of problems to overcome, including measures to boost the flagging economy and preparing the legal framework to allow the nation to exercise the right of collective self-defence in limited situations.

The change of the defence minister came from Eto's strong intention to resign, according to sources.

"I can't cause trouble with my scandal over political funds while I am assigned to be engaged in the historical security legislation." Visiting Abe in mid-December, Eto opened up his talk with such a phrase. He timed the revelation of his intention for shortly after the latest election.

At the extraordinary Diet session held in September shortly after he assumed the post, Eto was severely questioned by opposition parties about a scandal in which he reportedly revised the political funds reports of his funds management organisation.

It was easy to imagine Eto would be barraged with questions again at an ordinary Diet session to be convened at the beginning of the next year.

The prime minister tried to persuade him to stay in his post, saying, "It should be fine."

Nevertheless, Eto's decision to resign was firm, according to sources.

Some opposition party members claim that Eto's resignation was the third example of a replacement regarding a money-and-politics scandal, following the double resignations of Justice Minister Midori Matsushima and Economy, and Trade and Industry Minister Yuko Obuchi.

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Money-politics scandals smolder in new Japanese Cabinet