The Democratic Party for the People is calling for a review of the income tax threshold. The current annual income tax threshold is set at 1.03 million yen. As a result, some part-time workers reduce their working hours.

Ishiba won the LDP presidential election in his fifth attempt. None of the nine candidates secured a majority in the first round. Ishiba came from behind to defeat Takaichi in the runoff.

A special investigation committee was held to examine abuse of power allegations against the Hyogo governor. An anonymous whistleblower document was sent to the prefectural assembly members in March.

Prime Minister Fumio Kishida made a surprise announcement in mid-August. He decided not to run in the LDP presidential election next month. This means Japan will see a new prime minister soon.

Police issued a new arrest warrant for three members of a fringe political group. The three are suspected of violating the Public Offices Election Law. They allegedly obstructed a rival candidate’s campaign for an April by-election.

The Environment Minister offered an apology to those affected by Minamata disease. This illness results from mercury contamination in wastewater. The ministry was criticized for its handling of a stakeholder meeting.

Tokyo governor Yuriko Koike plans to introduce new legislation. This aims to tackle abuse and unreasonable demands from customers.Koike announced her plans at the Tokyo Metropolitan Assembly.