Constitutional Democratic Party executives decide to cancel fundraiser parties following backlash

The Constitutional Democratic Party of Japan (CDP) has made a surprising decision to cancel their scheduled political fundraiser parties in an effort to avoid criticism from both ruling and opposition lawmakers. This move comes amidst ongoing deliberations in parliament regarding bills to revise the political funds control law.

CDP Secretary-General Katsuya Okada had planned a party in Osaka Prefecture but announced on Saturday that he would instead hold a regular lecture and refund all money raised for the event. Okada cited the sensitive timing of the deliberations on the political funds control law as the reason for the cancellation, stating that he did not want to negatively impact the ongoing discussions.

Similarly, Hiroshi Ogushi, chairman of the CDP’s election campaign committee, also decided to cancel a planned party in Tokyo on June 17 after consulting with his supporters’ association.

The CDP recently submitted a bill to the Lower House to ban lawmakers from hosting fundraiser parties starting in January 2026. Despite this, CDP chief Kenta Izumi clarified at a news conference that holding such parties would still be acceptable for the time being, emphasizing the need for transitional measures.

Okada echoed this sentiment, stating that the party does not prohibit fundraiser parties until the bill comes into effect and that it would be prudent to observe how the political reform process unfolds. The decision to cancel the parties reflects the CDP’s attempt to navigate the delicate political landscape and maintain consistency in their stance on political fundraising practices.