Japan passes revised retrial law amid criticism from exonerated prisoners

On July 17, the Japanese Diet approved amendments to the Criminal Procedure Act that overhaul the country's retrial (再審) system. The new provisions prohibit most appeals by prosecutors against a decision to start a retrial, require broader disclosure of evidence, and embed a clause mandating a review of the system every five years.

Relatives of individuals whose convictions were overturned expressed disappointment. Hideko Hakamata, sister of the exonerated Iwao Hakamata, said at a press conference, "I expected a more decent amendment, but I am disappointed." Similarly, the son of a case awaiting retrial asked for full evidence disclosure and removal of restrictions on prosecutor appeals.

The Supreme Prosecutors Office acknowledged public concern over past retrial procedures and pledged to implement the law faithfully. Editorial commentary warned that the legislation still leaves significant gaps, noting that the ruling party pushed the bill through without substantial revisions and stressing the need for ongoing oversight.