Scandal and Strategy: The Dual Path of Yuichiro Tamaki

Yuichiro Tamaki, leader of the Democratic Party for the People, admitted to an affair with a model. Despite the scandal, he retained party support, affecting Japan's political dynamics amid Prime Minister Ishiba's vulnerability. Tamaki's leadership holds strategic power in supporting policies of Japan's ruling party.

Yuichiro Tamaki, leading Japan's Democratic Party for the People (DPP), confirmed reports of his extramarital affair following a tabloid story by SmartFlash. The admission came just before lawmakers were to decide the next Prime Minister. Despite the controversy, Tamaki continues to command his party's unwavering support.

The scandal broke after SmartFlash published images of Tamaki, 55, with a 39-year-old model. The DPP leader accepted the truth of the reports and issued a public apology. Addressing the impact of his personal actions, Tamaki reiterated his commitment to the country's best interests and policy advancement.

This political turbulence comes as Japanese lawmakers reconvene to decide Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba's fate after his coalition's recent electoral setbacks. Tamaki's DPP, despite opposing Ishiba, remains open to policy collaborations with his Liberal Democratic Party.

(With inputs from agencies.)