In the shadow of a smoking volcano, Sohei Kamiya, leader of the nationalist Sanseito party, electrified a youthful audience of about 800 with a campaign speech that could easily resonate with voters in the U.S. and Europe. "Japanese First," his rallying cry, aims to combat what he describes as threats from globalists and a failing political establishment. His political message is framed to resonate particularly with younger voters feeling neglected in Japan’s evolving economy.
Kamiya, who is currently not on the ballot, is a former member of Japan's Upper House and founded his party with aspirations that stretch beyond mere participation in politics. The Sanseito party is poised for a significant debut in the upcoming parliamentary elections, with pre-election polls suggesting a third-place finish—a remarkable achievement for a party that emerged just five years ago.
Critics accuse him of xenophobia, as his rhetoric often targets the growing population of foreign residents, which surged to 3.8 million last year, increasingly blamed for socioeconomic issues despite mounting evidence that crime rates among non-Japanese residents are comparable to those among native nationals. Nonetheless, his message resonates with many young Japanese, including those like hospital worker Yoko Kiba, who expressed desire for immigration policy prioritizing Japanese citizens.
With the Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) facing declining support, particularly since the assassination of former Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, emerging populist parties are captivating the attention of disillusioned Japanese voters. The LDP’s historical hold on power may be threatened further by a Sanseito victory as it addresses the grievances around stagnating wages and rising living costs.
Amid rumors of potential resignation for Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba, experts speculate a shift in Japanese politics fueled by these new parties, including Sanseito and other nationalists, who are increasingly drawing in voters traditionally aligned with the LDP.
Kamiya’s campaign strategy strategically leverages social media to bypass traditional media scrutiny, delivering his message directly to young voters. He has expressed ambitions to create a movement akin to Trump’s "America First," while emphasizing that his approach is more community-centered than ego-driven.
The results of the parliamentary election may redefine the future of Japanese politics, potentially giving a voice to an emerging generation determined to prioritize their interests and secure Japan’s autonomy amid the pressures of globalization.
Kamiya, who is currently not on the ballot, is a former member of Japan's Upper House and founded his party with aspirations that stretch beyond mere participation in politics. The Sanseito party is poised for a significant debut in the upcoming parliamentary elections, with pre-election polls suggesting a third-place finish—a remarkable achievement for a party that emerged just five years ago.
Critics accuse him of xenophobia, as his rhetoric often targets the growing population of foreign residents, which surged to 3.8 million last year, increasingly blamed for socioeconomic issues despite mounting evidence that crime rates among non-Japanese residents are comparable to those among native nationals. Nonetheless, his message resonates with many young Japanese, including those like hospital worker Yoko Kiba, who expressed desire for immigration policy prioritizing Japanese citizens.
With the Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) facing declining support, particularly since the assassination of former Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, emerging populist parties are captivating the attention of disillusioned Japanese voters. The LDP’s historical hold on power may be threatened further by a Sanseito victory as it addresses the grievances around stagnating wages and rising living costs.
Amid rumors of potential resignation for Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba, experts speculate a shift in Japanese politics fueled by these new parties, including Sanseito and other nationalists, who are increasingly drawing in voters traditionally aligned with the LDP.
Kamiya’s campaign strategy strategically leverages social media to bypass traditional media scrutiny, delivering his message directly to young voters. He has expressed ambitions to create a movement akin to Trump’s "America First," while emphasizing that his approach is more community-centered than ego-driven.
The results of the parliamentary election may redefine the future of Japanese politics, potentially giving a voice to an emerging generation determined to prioritize their interests and secure Japan’s autonomy amid the pressures of globalization.
