June 11, 2026

A parliamentary panel in discussion on the succession to the imperial throne at its meeting on June 10 approved a controversial draft proposal, in defiance of opposition from the Japanese Communist Party and others, as the “consensus of the legislative branch”.

The draft suggests the adoption of male descendants in the male line of former imperial branches that lost their imperial status after the war. It also suggests allowing female royals to stay in the imperial family after marriage.

At the meeting held at the House of Representatives Speaker’s official residence, JCP Secretariat Head Koike Akira said that the approval of the draft as the “legislative branch’s consensus” is unacceptable on the grounds that there are political parties that oppose it and are expressing dissent. In addition, Koike criticized the draft for taking the position based on an “ironclad principle” that the Emperor should be succeeded by male-lineage males, which is a clear violation of the Constitution.

Koike claimed, “The Diet is the representative body of the general public as sovereigns. It’s not allowed to consolidate the consensus of the legislature without listening to the voice of the people.” He proposed that the panel solicit the opinions of experts, including constitutional scholars, and ask them for public comment. He stressed, “It is the Diet responsibility to engage in broad national discussions and strive to form a consensus among the general public.”

Furthermore, Koike said, “Reviewing the current system that limits heirs to the Chrysanthemum Throne to males in the male line has significance in increasing public awareness of the lack of gender equality.”

Past related article:
> JCP Koike: Constitution allows women to be Emperor [April 16, 2026]