Analyst Warns Against Silence Over Slander Videos in Japan

Political analyst Kenji Goto has warned that the silence of the Liberal Democratic Party regarding slanderous videos targeting Prime Minister Takaichi's camp risks fostering a culture of political conjecture.

The lack of a formal response from the party suggests a dangerous trend of "sontaku" — the practice of anticipating the wishes of superiors to avoid conflict. If the ruling party fails to address targeted disinformation, it may signal a concentration of power that stifles transparency and accountability within the Japanese government.

In a recorded interview with TBS NEWS DIG, Goto questioned the lack of public reaction from those affected by such campaigns. He asked why individuals like Koizumi, who had also been targets of slander, remained silent ^[1].

Goto said, "Because she has managed everything on her own until now, when the time comes, Takaichi is the only person who can answer" ^[1]. This dynamic, according to Goto, places an undue burden on the Prime Minister while shielding the broader party structure from scrutiny.

The discussion comes as the Takaichi administration has been in place for six months ^[2]. The silence from the Liberal Democratic Party is viewed by critics as an attempt to avoid political instability, but Goto said this approach creates a vacuum where misinformation can proliferate without challenge.

Critics suggest that by ignoring the existence of these slanderous videos, the party is effectively allowing an environment where political opponents can be discredited through unofficial channels without facing legal or political repercussions. This silence is framed not as a strategy of stability, but as a failure of leadership to protect the integrity of the democratic process ^[1], ^[2].