Following the shooting of former Prime Minister Abe, Prime Minister Kishida told reporters, "It is a sneaky barbarism that took place during the elections that are the basis of democracy, and I can never forgive it." He strongly criticized him and expressed his intention to convene ministers to discuss the response.
After returning to Tokyo from Yamagata Prefecture, where the speech was made, Prime Minister Kishida responded to a reporter's interview at the Prime Minister's Office before 3:00 pm.
In this, Prime Minister Kishida said, "I heard that former Prime Minister Shinzo Abe was shot in Nara Prefecture before noon today and is currently in a serious situation. I understand that hard emergency measures are being taken now. First of all, I sincerely hope that former Prime Minister Abe will survive. "
He added, "The background of this crime is not yet fully understood, but it is a sneaky barbarism that took place during the elections that are the basis of democracy, and I can never forgive it. I blame you in harsh words. "
In addition, when the reporters asked about the impact on the future political situation, "Since the emergency and lifesaving measures are being carried out now, the impact on the future political situation should not be touched on now. I think, and I'm not thinking about that myself. "
He added, "First of all, it is important that lifesaving measures are taken firmly in response to the harsh conditions of reality, and that the government prepares thorough measures to deal with all situations."
"After this, I would like to return all the ministers to Tokyo and gather them to share and confirm their awareness of this situation and the government's response. No schedule for future elections has been decided yet. We must understand it and take appropriate measures. "
He added, "I haven't fully grasped the criminal image or background of this crime. In the future, I have to confirm the police investigation, etc. I recognize that it is very important to confirm the background. I have. "