Closure at Last: Hakamada's Acquittal Seals Longest Death Row Saga

Japanese prosecutors will not appeal the acquittal of Iwao Hakamada, the world's longest-serving death-row inmate, who was found not guilty. This decision concludes a 1966 murder case marked by wrongful conviction and evidence fabrication, underscoring Japan's slow justice process and the rarity of retrials.

Japanese prosecutors have confirmed they will not contest the acquittal of Iwao Hakamada, marking the end of one of the longest-running legal battles in Japanese history. Hakamada, the world's longest-serving death-row inmate, was exonerated last month in a case that dates back to 1966.

Prosecutor-general Naomi Unemoto expressed regret over the decades-long ordeal Hakamada faced, acknowledging the fabricated evidence and coerced confession that led to his wrongful conviction. The Shizuoka District Court cleared his name, the decision becoming final just days before the appeal deadline.

Upon hearing the news, Hakamada's sister, Hideko, welcomed the closure. Hakamada's legal turmoil highlights the issues within Japan's judicial system, where retrials are rare, and conviction rates are staggeringly high. As Hakamada stands to receive substantial government compensation, his legal team considers further action against authorities for their role in the wrongful conviction.

(With inputs from agencies.)