Japan’s military shift challenged in court by ex-civil servant
Ex-civil servant files action against Tokyo's move to reinterpret its war-renouncing constitution
The Japanese government faces a legal challenge to its decision to expand the scope of the military, a divisive shift for the pacifist nation that sparked protests at home and drew sharp criticism from China.
The legal action filed with the Tokyo District Court seeks to block a decision by Prime Minister Shinzo Abe's cabinet last week to reinterpret rules which have long banned the use of armed force except in narrowly defined circumstances.
I want to pass on the message ‘never wage war’ to the next generation
Tokinao Chindo, 75, a former civil servant, said the move violated Japan's pacifist constitution, prompting his writ, believed to be the first such action.
"I hope other Japanese people will follow suit and file legal actions nationwide," Chindo said.
Following the change, Japanese troops would be able to come to the aid of allies, primarily the United States, if they come under attack from a common enemy, even if Japan is not the object of the attack.
Abe's move has caused anger at home, where the pacifism on which the constitution is built is an article of faith for many.
At least half the population opposes a more aggressive military stance, according to recent newspaper polls.