On March 14, 2025, an unsettling attack unfolded in front of the Ministry of Economy, Trade, and Industry in Tokyo, where Takashi Tachibana, leader of the NHK Party, was severely injured. Tachibana was assaulted by 30-year-old Shion Miyanishi, who attacked him with a machete. Miyanishi was arrested on suspicion of attempted murder.
Tachibana suffered serious injuries, including cuts to his head and ear. Miyanishi has confessed to intending to kill Tachibana when he struck him with the machete.
In the aftermath of the attack, it was revealed that Miyanishi had used a flash grenade just before assaulting Tachibana. The device, which produces a blinding flash and loud noise, likely aimed to disorient both Tachibana and witnesses. Miyanishi reportedly admitted that he used the grenade to confuse those around him, making it easier to carry out the attack.
Miyanishi was quickly apprehended at the scene. Authorities are continuing to investigate his motives, with reports indicating that the attack was premeditated. Miyanishi allegedly planned the assault for some time before carrying it out.
Despite the serious nature of the attack, Tachibana has since provided an update on his condition via X (formerly Twitter), reassuring the public that he is recovering. He mentioned that while he has sustained injuries to his ear and scalp, which required stitches, the wound on his neck was not deep enough to require stitches. He also acknowledged the heroic actions of a bystander who restrained Miyanishi, stating that this person’s intervention saved his life, though they too were injured in the process.
Tachibana expressed his gratitude towards the medical staff who treated him at Sanda Hospital, and he conveyed a positive message to his supporters, vowing to continue his political activities. He also thanked the police officers involved in the investigation and those who came to his aid.
In his post, Tachibana also noted that despite conspiracy theories surrounding the attack, he firmly believes that the attack was linked to his criticism of the TBS network, particularly their reporting on the NHK Party.
In his latest social media update, Tachibana encouraged his followers to vote for him in the upcoming Chiba Prefecture gubernatorial election. He posted: "Tomorrow is election day. I won’t be able to post until 8 PM, but don’t worry. If you're in Chiba, please vote for me—Tachibana Takashi!" He also thanked those who had been supporting him during his recovery.
The NHK Party, which Tachibana leads, has been a vocal critic of Japan's national broadcaster, NHK, advocating for significant reforms. Tachibana's controversial political stance could have played a role in the motives behind the attack.
Authorities are continuing their investigation to uncover further details, including whether any accomplices were involved. This incident has shocked the nation, sparking conversations about the safety of political leaders and the growing threat of extreme violence in political disputes.
