LDP Executive Mentions Possibility of Tokyo Olympics Cancellation

Shimomura Hakubun, Chairman of the Policy Research Council of the Liberal Democratic Party of Japan [Image source= Reuters Yonhap News]

[Asia Economy Reporter Park Byung-hee] Shimomura Hakubun, Chairman of the Policy Research Council of Japan's Liberal Democratic Party, mentioned the possibility of canceling the Tokyo Olympics and Paralympics.

On the 4th, Shimomura appeared on BS11, a Japanese satellite broadcasting channel, and regarding the hosting of the Tokyo Olympics and Paralympics, he said, "If a large number of athletes from major countries cannot come, the International Olympic Committee (IOC) may have to reconsider," mentioning the possibility of cancellation, according to Jiji Press.

The Policy Research Council Chairman is one of the four key executives of the ruling Liberal Democratic Party, along with the Secretary-General, the Chairman of the Election Strategy Committee, and the Chairman of the General Council.

Regarding the government’s consideration of not allowing overseas spectators during the Tokyo Olympics and Paralympics from July to September, Shimomura said, "It could be an option."

The Japanese government, considering concerns over the spread of the novel coronavirus infection (COVID-19), maintains the position of holding the Tokyo Olympics, which opens on July 23, as scheduled even if overseas spectators are not allowed.