In the old days, politicians in Japan were highly respected by the general public and were often referred to as members of "the elected elite." Today, however, there are virtually no politicians worthy of that appellation.

The ever deteriorating quality of Japanese politicians is seen not only among those serving their first terms as lawmakers but also among leaders of the highest ranks, including Prime Minister Shinzo Abe.

Last month, a panel of the ruling Liberal Democratic Party held hearings to question representatives of TV Asahi and NHK about their news programs. TV Asahi was reportedly grilled at length on comments made during a program broadcast March 27 dealing with Shigeaki Koga, formerly with the Ministry of Economy, Industry and Trade. He said during the show that he had been "bashed" by Chief Cabinet Secretary Yoshihide Suga and other officials from the prime minister's office.