The Spin

Establishment-critical narrative

Opting to hold a state funeral was an unjustified decision from PM Kishida without democratic discussion and ignoring the four-decades-old joint funeral system for former prime ministers. This ceremony will deepens public division and endorses the party's highly-disturbing ties with the Unification Church.

Pro-establishment narrative

Though PM Kishida may not have followed the standard process, he was right to honor Shinzo Abe with a state funeral. Abe had his flaws, but he's undeniably among Japan's greatest leaders after reviving the country's economy and turning it into a key international player. Detractors who failed to defeat him in life are now embarrassing Japan to score political points after his death.

Metaculus Prediction


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