Japanese Prime Minister Revisits Explosion Site: "Grateful for the Courage"

by Lee Gwanju

Published 22 Apr.2023 18:45(KST)

Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida revisited Wakayama Prefecture, where an explosive device was thrown a day before the unified local elections and the by-elections for the National Diet, to express gratitude to the fishermen who subdued the suspect and conducted final campaign activities.

Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida. [Image source=Reuters Yonhap News]

According to local media on the 22nd, Prime Minister Kishida met with the fishermen who subdued the suspect, Ryuji Kimura (24), who threw an explosive device at him at the Saikazaki Fish Market in Wakayama City on the 15th, at a hotel in the city on the same day. At the meeting, Kishida said, "It was a situation where many people were in danger," and "I sincerely thank everyone for their courage and quick action." At the time, Kishida had taken cover before the explosive detonated and was not injured.

Kishida also stated that the image of Saikazaki Port should not be tarnished by this incident and expressed his intention to revisit in the future. Additionally, he gave a street speech in front of the hotel, apologizing for causing concern. The police deployed more than 200 officers and strengthened security at the scene by inspecting the belongings of the audience.

Meanwhile, on the 23rd in Japan, the "second half" of the unified local elections to elect heads of basic local governments and local assembly members, as well as by-elections to elect four members of the House of Representatives and one member of the House of Councillors, will be held.