Survey Shows 18 Japanese Governors Support Constitutional Revision

Eighteen of Japan's 47 prefectural governors recognize the need to revise the country's Constitution, according to a survey reported by the Japan Times. Nine governors, including those of Aomori and Osaka, agreed that constitutional revision is necessary. The remaining nine, including those of Yamanashi and Fukuoka, somewhat agreed.

Iwate somewhat disagreed with the need for revision. " Twenty-two governors, including those of Nagano and Hyogo, said they neither agree nor disagree. The governors of Hiroshima and Nagasaki avoided giving clear answers. The governors of Tokyo, Mie and Nara left all items unanswered.

Forty-three governors agreed that national discussions about whether to revise the Constitution are necessary. The survey was conducted between March and April. When asked about specific articles, six governors pointed to the need to revise Article 9, which stipulates pacifism, and four others somewhat recognized the need.

Several governors stated that the Self-Defense Forces should be clearly positioned in the Constitution on the premise that Japan adheres to pacifism. A revision of Chapter 8 on local self-government was backed by nine governors and somewhat supported by six others.

The governor of Tokushima stated that all 47 prefectures must be represented to ensure equality under the law.