Feb 7 • 21:00 UTC 🇯🇵 Japan Asahi Shimbun (JP)

Overcoming Pressure During Wartime to Win Elections 25 Times: The Voting Philosophy Advocated by Yoshio Ozaki

Yoshio Ozaki, a significant figure in Japanese democracy, highlights the importance of voter participation in a special election in Ise City, Mie Prefecture.

The recent snap election, an unusual occurrence following the immediate dissolution of the House of Representatives, marks the 51st instance since the establishment of the Imperial Diet during the Meiji era. Among those noteworthy in this history is Yoshio Ozaki, known as 'the God of Constitutional Government,' who was elected in all 25 elections from the first post-war election until his death in 1954. His legacy emphasizes the ongoing importance of each voter in nurturing democracy, as seen in his commemorative museum in Ise City, Mie Prefecture, which showcases his life and contributions to constitutionalism.

Located along the pristine Miya River, the Yoshio Ozaki Memorial Museum, managed by a local NPO, features exhibits that span from the late Edo period through the Showa era, capturing the essence of Ozaki’s 95-year life. The museum records Ozaki’s pivotal moments in political history, including his public inquiries against wartime leaders and personal letters to supporters. The museum director, Kenzo Okumoto, reflects on Ozaki's impactful presence, illustrating how the community revered him not just as a political figure, but as a symbol of democratic ideals throughout tumultuous times.

Despite his strong ties to the community, Ozaki's supporters were often hesitant about his campaigning methods, preferring that he focus on broader national political issues rather than on his own electoral success. This dynamic highlights the respect Ozaki commanded, as supporters believed it was crucial for him to prioritize Japan’s future over personal electoral ambitions. The supportive relationship he cultivated during his prolonged career—approximately 63 years in the House of Representatives—demonstrates the deep-rooted connection between Ozaki’s political journey and the evolution of democratic practices in Japan, especially during challenging times like the Pacific War.

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