Abe suffers a blow as public backlash delays prosecutor bill

Setback comes after previous policy reversal on cash assistance

20200518N Abe

Prime Minister Shinzo Abe gives up on pushing a controversial bill that would extend the retirement age of top prosecutors in the current Diet session. 

Nikkei staff writers

TOKYO -- Japan's ruling party has given up on passing controversial legislation extending the retirement age of top prosecutors during the current session in the face of mounting public opposition, dealing a major blow to Prime Minister Shinzo Abe.

The shelving of a key bill pushed by the ruling coalition comes as another setback for Abe, who already faces criticism for his response to the coronavirus outbreak, including his about-face on the government's cash payout plans.

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