Former lawmaker Yasutada Ono has pleaded not guilty in the ongoing trial tied to the Liberal Democratic Party’s (LDP) political funds scandal. The Tokyo District Court opened the first hearing on September 10, 2025, involving Ono, 66, and his longtime secretary, Yoshiko Iwata, 62. Ono, an ex-member of the House of Councilors, now faces charges related to the misuse of political funds within LDP factions.
Before formally entering his plea, Ono expressed regret over the growing distrust in politics caused by the scandal. Nevertheless, he firmly rejected any allegations of criminal wrongdoing. He stated, “There was no collusion of false statements. I am morally responsible, but I have never committed a crime.” His secretary Iwata also denied the charges, pleading not guilty alongside him.
The trial has already attracted major public attention, intensifying ongoing debates about political transparency in Japan. Many citizens worry that repeated financial scandals within the ruling party continue to undermine accountability. Prosecutors allege that the reported misuse and underreporting of funds violated the political funds control law. The proceedings will carefully examine both defendants’ roles in the alleged misconduct.
Importantly, this case forms part of a much larger investigation into political funds scandals across several LDP factions. Earlier this year, accountant Hidekatsu Yajima faced a fine of ¥1 million for underreporting over ¥60 million within the Tokyo Metropolitan Assembly’s LDP bloc. Furthermore, former secretary Toshifumi Ushikubo received a fine of ¥300,000 for failing to disclose ¥19.52 million between 2020 and 2022.
As the trial progresses, observers stress that Ono’s case could set a precedent for future accountability within Japanese politics. Supporters of stricter reforms argue that this trial highlights the urgent need for greater oversight in managing political funds. Meanwhile, critics of the party suggest the repeated scandals reveal a structural issue within the LDP itself.
In conclusion, the trial of Ono and Iwata has become a pivotal moment for Japan’s ruling party. The outcome will likely influence not only public trust but also future standards for ethical governance and transparency.
