Thousands Protest Takaichi Military Expansion Policies in Tokyo

Sanae Takaichi and the ruling Liberal Democratic Party faced large-scale protests in Tokyo on June 14 as thousands demonstrated against the government's military expansion policies. Protesters marched near the Diet, chanting slogans against constitutional revision and the remilitarization of Japan.

The demonstrations followed a June 9 decision by the Liberal Democratic Party to approve a draft proposal revising three key security documents. This proposal calls for increased defense spending and higher manning rates for Japan Self-Defence Forces reserve personnel.

Participants expressed concern that strengthening the Japan-U.S. security alliance and increasing military deployments, particularly in Okinawa, could lead the country toward war. Beyond security issues, demonstrators cited rising taxes and the cost of living, as well as fears that new legislation could restrict freedom of expression and suppress anti-war sentiment.