On March 14, a large demonstration demanding the dismantling of Japan’s Ministry of Finance took place, drawing an estimated 3,000 to 4,000 participants to the vicinity of the ministry. The event, which started around 5 PM and lasted until 7 PM, was marked by fervent chants calling for the abolition of the consumption tax and the dismantling of the ministry itself.
The atmosphere was electric, with protesters filling the sidewalks between the Ministry of Finance and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Eyewitnesses reported an impressive turnout, with a long queue of demonstrators stretching through the area. As the demonstration progressed, the organizers emphasized the peaceful nature of the protest and encouraged participants to respect the environment, highlighting the importance of preserving the plant life in the vicinity.
Among the speakers was a representative who invoked the legacy of the late economist Takuro Morinaga, who was a vocal critic of the Japanese government’s financial policies. His widow was also present, holding a photo of him, which underscored the emotional weight of the demonstration.
As the rally unfolded, unexpected chaos ensued when prominent figures like Takashi Tachibana, who was holding a separate event across the street, inadvertently added to the confusion. Clashes between different factions of the protestors heightened tensions, leading to a chaotic atmosphere that was described as tumultuous.
Participants expressed their frustrations over the government’s handling of economic issues, particularly the rising cost of living exacerbated by the consumption tax. Many voiced their belief that a radical change in fiscal policy was necessary to alleviate the burden on ordinary citizens. The call for a more transparent and accountable financial system resonated throughout the crowd, highlighting a growing discontent with the status quo.
The event concluded with a renewed commitment among attendees to continue advocating for fiscal reform and greater governmental accountability, marking a significant moment in Japan’s ongoing discourse around economic policy and public finance.