House of Representatives lawmaker Muneo Suzuki, who was arrested last week over an alleged bribery scandal, renewed his determination Monday to stay in the Diet despite the passing of a nonbinding resolution by the Lower House demanding his resignation.
"I have a belief that the issue concerning myself will become clear over the course of time," said Suzuki in a statement released through his office. "Although the resolution was approved by the Lower House, I have no intention to resign."
Suzuki also said that he will do his best to fulfill his duties as a lawmaker under the conditions granted to him.
Commenting on Suzuki's statement, LDP Secretary General Taku Yamasaki said: "Although the resolution is nonbinding, I hope he will respect the intention set forth by the chamber."
The Lower House, including the Liberal Democratic Party, to which Suzuki had belonged, approved an opposition-sponsored resolution Friday demanding that Suzuki resign.