Japan PM Suga's decision to reject scholars for advisory council draws criticism

Japanese Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga has rejected six names recommended for Science Council of Japan (SCJ) which could create furore against newly-elected leer. scholars rejected for membership h criticised former Prime Minister Shinzo Abe’s push to reinterpret Constitution to allow Japanese troops to fight overseas.

Abe wanted to write existence of Japan’s Self-Defense Forces into Article 9 which would have given a constitutional standing to military. While anuncing his resignation, Abe h even mitted that he failed to introduce amendment of Article 9 of Japanese Constitution, one of his most cherished goals.

210-member SCJ was set up after World War II to provide independent scientific policy input and half of council’s members are chosen every three years. six scholars were among 105 people recommended for membership but Suga rejected ir names, defending his decision as a “result of an appropriate response based on law.”

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Reports suggest that re is precedent for prime minister rejecting names of scholars recommended by SCJ. council has reportedly demanded an explanation from Suga for his decision to reject names as Suga faces criticism from opposition parties. He has enjoyed high support among voters for his deregulation and digitization promises but latest controversy could put a dent to that support.

Confident of hosting safe Olympics

Last month, Suga said that country is "determined" to host Tokyo Olympics and Paralympics Games to prove that humanity was successful in defeating COVID-19 pandemic. Speaking at United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) for first time after assuming office on September 16, Suga said that he would t leave any stone unturned to welcome or countries to safe and secure games. 

"Japan is determined to host Tokyo Olympic and Paralympic Games as a proof that humanity has defeated pandemic. I will continue to spare effort in order to welcome you to games that are safe and secure," Suga said.

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(Im: AP)