Posted 12/14/2023, 4:38:53 AM
Kishida Government Rocked as Key Allies Resign Amid Kickback Scandal Probes
- Escalating scandal involving allegations of unreported kickbacks from ruling LDP party fundraising leads several ministers to resign
- Ministers stepping down include PM Kishida's close ally and government spokesman Matsuno, as well as Economy Minister Nishimura
- Resignations come from ministers in the powerful Abe faction of the LDP
- Prosecutors have opened a criminal probe into the Abe faction over missing 500 million yen ($3.5 million) in party funds
- Scandal has caused PM Kishida's public support to plunge to 23%, the lowest since he took office in 2021