Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi is embroiled in controversy after confirming her local Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) chapter distributed gift catalogs worth approximately 30,000 yen ($192) per person to 315 ruling party lawmakers following their recent election victories. The revelation, first reported by media outlets on February 24, 2026, has reignited debates about political ethics and compliance with Japan's Political Funds Control Law.
During a parliamentary session on February 25, opposition lawmakers demanded accountability, with Centrist Reform Alliance leader Junya Ogawa condemning the practice as reflective of the LDP's "old culture of financial entitlement." The gifts were funded through political donations to Takaichi's local party chapter, raising questions about potential legal violations regarding candidate-related expenditures.
This controversy follows persistent public skepticism toward the LDP after its 2023 slush fund scandal. Takaichi, who assumed office in October 2025, has faced additional criticism for appointing politicians previously linked to financial misconduct and for her own December 2025 campaign finance allegations.
Legal experts are divided on whether the gift distribution constitutes a violation, with some noting the absence of direct cash transfers. However, opposition parties argue the practice undermines public trust in political institutions already strained by recent scandals.
