When I interviewed 67 local governments, including prefectures and ordinance-designated cities nationwide, about whether to express condolences at the state funeral of former Prime Minister Abe, which will be held today, 65 local governments answered that they would raise their flags at half-staff.
Flags at half mast and mourning flags 65 local governments responded
Regarding the state funeral of former Prime Minister Abe, the government has decided not to ask local governments and boards of education to express condolences, saying that ``we do not ask for condolences from each and every citizen,'' and the response is left to each local government.
NHK interviewed a total of 67 local governments, including 47 prefectures and 20 ordinance-designated cities, about their response on the day of the national funeral.
When asked if they planned to show condolences at the government office, etc., as of the 26th, a total of 65 municipalities, including 46 prefectures and 19 cities, answered that they would raise half-mast flags and mourning flags.
Two local governments, Okinawa Prefecture and Kawasaki City, decided not to show it.
As of the 22nd of this month, it seems that eight local governments had a hard time dealing with the situation, as opinions on state funerals were divided, such as ``undecided''.
Notice of condolence to the board of education Only Yamaguchi Prefecture responded to "issue"
On the other hand, when asked if the board of education would issue a notice regarding the expression of condolence, as of the 26th, only Yamaguchi Prefecture, Mr. Abe's hometown, answered that it would, while the other 66 local governments said they would not. ” he answers.
Attend the state funeral Governors and mayors of 61 municipalities Absence of 6 municipalities
When asked if they would attend the state funeral, as of the 26th, governors and mayors of 61 out of 67 municipalities answered that they would attend.
Okinawa Prefecture, Shizuoka Prefecture, Miyazaki Prefecture, Nagano Prefecture, Sagamihara City, and Shizuoka City said they would be absent due to condolences immediately after Mr. Abe's death, disaster response, and the assembly.