Voters split on revising pacifist constitution

Politics Jan. 29, 2013 - 07:15AM JST ( 13 )

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13 Comments

5

Geoff GillespieJan. 29, 2013 - 07:41AM JST

Can we please get over this idea of a 'pacifist' constitution? Pacifism means NEVER fighting back, even to defend yourself. This isn't what Japan means when it talks about article 9.
3

TamaramaJan. 29, 2013 - 08:26AM JST

This issue should be considered primarily in how it will effect Japan's relationships with China and North Korea - their two most belligerent and challenging neighbors. Will it antagonise them, or make them a little more circumspect about Japan?

With continued US support, I really don't see the need to change things. However, at the end of the day, a country has the right to a military, and that part of the world is vastly different to the way it was in 1947.
4

VirtuosoJan. 29, 2013 - 08:37AM JST

I can't think of a single Japanese legislator (or anyone else in this country) I would trust for a second to come up with constitutional revisions that somehow didn't accord more money or power (or both) for himself or his family.
-1

OssanAmericaJan. 29, 2013 - 08:59AM JST

It is time for Japan to revise it's constitution. China's behavior towards it's Asian neighbors and challenge to the United States makes this imperative for Japan's survival in the future.
2

Kazuaki ShimazakiJan. 29, 2013 - 10:28AM JST

@Tamarama The correct answer is that it will do both. My read is that the latter is more important.
0

BertieWoosterJan. 29, 2013 - 01:04PM JST

Geoff,

Can we please get over this idea of a 'pacifist' constitution? Pacifism means NEVER fighting back, even to defend yourself. This isn't what Japan means when it talks about article 9.

I think what they mean is "pacifist" in comparison with certain other countries who shall be nameless, who open fire at the slightest opportunity and who are famous for running covert operations such as training up rebels in Afghanistan, Mali, etc., that backfire on them.
-6

tmarieJan. 29, 2013 - 02:05PM JST

So if they change this does that mean the whole "Japan is a peaceful country" crap, we all have heard more times than I care to count, will stop?
2

YuriOtaniJan. 29, 2013 - 02:40PM JST

Am against removing article #9 as it puts the stability of the region in peril. Japan must NEVER again be aggressive towards another country. Defensive actions only, sorry America we are not your puppets and you asked for it. Fight your own wars really wish we were neutral in the world.
2

Surf O'HolicJan. 29, 2013 - 02:50PM JST

" The constitution has never been formally altered since it was drafted by U.S. Occupation forces in 1947."

Due for a change as the times and situation in Asia have changed.

The Swiss are neutral, but secure in their non-interventionist preparedness.
0

tokyo-starJan. 29, 2013 - 03:13PM JST

Changing the constitution won't mean a murderous rampage imperial like 70 years ago...just means Japan will be able to defend itself in the event that something happens without asking big brother US. Can you really see all the dudes with pointy shoes spending hours doing their hair in the mirror, going on a barbaric rampage through China and SE Asia today?
-1

tmarieJan. 29, 2013 - 03:22PM JST

**Japan must NEVER again be aggressive towards another country. **

So you disagree with Ishihara and Abe's sabre rattling then?
0

NessieJan. 29, 2013 - 03:48PM JST

The LDP is calling for changes to the law to ease limits on the military’s use of weapons and other restrictions in such cases following this month’s hostage crisis in Algeria, in which 10 Japanese were among 38 hostages killed.

As if such easing would have made one iota of difference in Algeria? Ease the constitution, by all means, but do it for the right reasons.
1

Kent McgrawJan. 29, 2013 - 04:51PM JST

So many things to comment on. First, do not think that the USA will always be there, the present administration is known for deserting his allies in favor of his enemies. If John Kerry becomes Secretary of State, things will get worse as he is pro-China and has much invested in China. It is wise for Japan to think about self defense. The only reason that Switzerland can remain neutral and non-interventionists is that every man there is given a gun and required to spend 2 years in the military. When they are sent home from the military they take their gun and are ready if anyone tries to invade. That is why Hitler did not invade. The times have changed and Asia has changed. With the US military bases leaving and they are planning on closing more bases, it is the wise thing to do to become more self reliant for defense purposes. Nessie, nothing would have helped in Algeria they are radical muslims and they do not live by international law. It did not help the American Embassy in Benghazi.