The ruling parties have reached an agreement to implement a regulation that will ensure decency in campaign posters, following the appearance of unrelated posters on campaign billboards during the Tokyo gubernatorial election in July. The Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) and its coalition partner Komeito held discussions on Friday to consider amendments to the Public Offices Election Law in response to this issue.
As part of their agreement, the two parties have decided to introduce a provision for decency regarding campaign posters and impose penalties on individuals who display commercial advertisements on official campaign billboards. They plan to initiate talks with opposition parties no later than early September, aiming to reach a consensus as soon as possible. Their goal is to submit a draft revision during an extraordinary Diet session scheduled for autumn.
During the Tokyo gubernatorial election campaign, there were instances where posters unrelated to the election were displayed, including one featuring a nearly naked woman. Additionally, concerns were raised about the buying and selling of billboard space.
Currently, there are provisions in place that call for maintaining dignity in campaign broadcasts and official election publications under existing laws. The LDP and Komeito aim to establish similar provisions specifically addressing campaign posters while also imposing fines on those involved in displaying profit-driven advertisements. Some LDP members have suggested fines of ¥1 million or less.
To address the issue of unrelated posters, it has been agreed upon that candidates’ names must be printed on all campaign materials. However, it was decided not to make it mandatory for candidates’ faces to be included due to considerations surrounding freedom of expression.
Regarding undignified language and behavior in campaign broadcasts, both ruling parties concluded that current rules are sufficient for dealing with such matters.