Prime Minister Shinzo Abe faced harsh criticism from leaders of the three largest opposition parties during Diet debate Wednesday, including Yorihisa Matsuno, leader of Ishin no To (Japan Innovation Party).
The ruling bloc had hoped Ishin would help the Abe Cabinet enact controversial national security bills, but Matsuno flatly denied that the second-largest opposition party is willing to engage in talks with the ruling bloc over the legislation.
Matsuno's tough stance may indicate Ishin executives are willing to maintain a fighting posture against Abe. However, some Osaka-based lawmakers are reportedly leaning toward Abe's Cabinet, leaving the party divided.