Okada Katsuya discusses election loss, cites online attacks over 'Taiwan contingency' questioning

According to CNA, former Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Katsuya Okada told the Yomiuri Shimbun that his defeat in the February lower house election was partly due to online attacks and smears following his questioning of Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi regarding whether a 'Taiwan contingency' constitutes a 'survival-threatening situation' under Japan's collective self-defense rights. He expressed his intention to run in the next election. Okada criticized the Prime Minister for lacking diverse advice and having a narrow perspective, which could lead to blind spots in major decisions. The 72-year-old served 12 terms in the House of Representatives and held high-ranking cabinet positions. His questioning in November last year drew a response from Takaichi that such a situation could constitute a 'survival-threatening situation,' sparking significant online criticism. In the February election, he lost his seat in Mie's 3rd district, ending a long parliamentary career. For the first time since the single-seat constituency system was introduced in 1996, the LDP swept all four districts in Mie Prefecture. Okada reflected, 'Regardless of the reasons, that election should not have been lost; it was my inadequacy.' He cited Takaichi's popularity, insufficient support for the 'Centrist Reform Coalition,' and social media attacks as the three main reasons for his defeat. Regarding the questioning, Okada argued that a 'survival-threatening situation' implies the Self-Defense Forces would use force, stating, 'Simply put, it means Japan would fight China alongside the US. As Prime Minister, such statements should not be made lightly.' He also noted that he was accused of being a 'Chinese spy' by some netizens during the campaign, adding, 'It is regrettable that it turned into a situation where I, the questioner, was blamed.' Despite the loss, Okada has resumed political activities, visiting supporters and planning town hall meetings. He stated, 'Running in the next lower house election is a prerequisite,' and hopes to reorganize the opposition in Mie. However, he acknowledged that with the LDP's landslide victory, the next election may be far off, and he hopes to support other candidates in next year's local elections.