Abe Brings in Former Soldier Nakatani as Defense Minister

Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe appointed a former soldier and security veteran as his new defense minister, as he prepares to push through legislation to toughen the countrys military stance amid a dispute with China.

Gen Nakatani, 57, was appointed to the post today, Chief Cabinet Secretary Yoshihide Suga told reporters in Tokyo. All other cabinet members will remain in their current posts, Suga said.

He served as head of the defense agency in 2001-2002 before it was upgraded to a ministry in 2007. He was the first former military official to reach that position, having served for about five years in the Ground Self-Defense Force before entering politics.

He is a former member of the self-defense forces, so he understands security from the ground level and he has been closely involved in policy issues, said Tetsuo Kotani, senior research fellow at the Japan Institute of International Affairs in Tokyo. I wouldnt categorize him either as a hawk or a dove. I would say hes a realist.

The replacement of Akinori Eto, who was criticized in parliament in October over alleged financial impropriety, comes as Abe seeks to pass a series of bills to back up his reinterpretation of the pacifist constitution. Polls show the change, which allows Japan to defend other countries, is unpopular with the public.

Shinzo Abe, president of the Liberal Democratic Party (LDP), center, is applauded as he is re-elected Japan's prime minister at the lower house of the Diet in Tokyo on Dec. 24, 2014. Close

Shinzo Abe, president of the Liberal Democratic Party (LDP), center, is applauded as he... Read More

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Shinzo Abe, president of the Liberal Democratic Party (LDP), center, is applauded as he is re-elected Japan's prime minister at the lower house of the Diet in Tokyo on Dec. 24, 2014.

This is to ensure the security of the Japanese people, Nakatani wrote on his website on the legislation. The understanding and support of the people is needed above all.

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Abe Brings in Former Soldier Nakatani as Defense Minister