Japanese Man Challenges Life Sentence in Abe Assassination Case

Tetsuya Yamagami has filed an appeal against his life sentence for the assassination of former Prime Minister Shinzo Abe. Yamagami's defense cited connections to the Unification Church, claiming financial hardship from his mother's donations influenced his actions. The Osaka High Court is set to review the appeal.

Tetsuya Yamagami, 45, has officially appealed against the life sentence he received for assassinating Japan's former Prime Minister Shinzo Abe.

Yamagami's actions in July 2022 shocked the nation, as he used a homemade gun to kill Abe during a campaign event in Nara. His life sentence aligns with the prosecutor's requests, although his defense argued for a lesser penalty of 20 years.

The defense suggested that Yamagami's motives were rooted in financial distress caused by his mother's significant donations to the Unification Church. It was noted that Yamagami killed Abe after the former leader sent a video message to a church-affiliated event. The Osaka High Court will now assess the validity of his appeal.

(With inputs from agencies.)