Opposition fails to capitalize on Abe's woes

PUBLIC SUPPORT for Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe has fallen below 30 percent, his lowest approval rating since he returned to power in 2012. Beijing News commented on Thursday:

The slump in Abe's approval rating came just three months after Abe poured scorn on the opposition Democratic Party for having the support of a meager 10 percent of the electorate. Smoldering scandals, from alleged favoritism linked to a friend's business and missteps by his Cabinet ministers, have dealt a heavy blow to Abe.

But the heaviest blow has actually come from himself, as many voters believe that the Japanese leader is taking them for granted. Abe disclaimed any involvement in the recent scandals even in the face of solid evidence and public calls for proper explanations. His administration has even been accused of smearing a political rival by publishing forged information about his personal life.