Yasuhiko Funago, a former House of Councilors lawmaker with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, or ALS, called on politicians to guarantee the right to "live until the end," in a recent written interview.
The retired lawmaker of Reiwa Shinsengumi, an opposition party, served one six-year term in the Upper House before deciding not to seek re-election in this July's election.
In the interview, conducted in writing as he cannot speak, Funago expressed strong concern about social pressures that could make it difficult for people with severe illnesses and disabilities to live.
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