Former Japan PM Murayama Dies Aged 101 After Landmark WWII Apology

Tomiichi Murayama, Japan's former prime minister and chairman of the Japan Socialist Party, died at age 101. He is widely remembered for his 1995 "Murayama Statement," issued on the 50th anniversary of World War II's end, in which he expressed deep remorse and offered a heartfelt apology for Japan's wartime aggression and colonial rule, particularly towards Asian nations. His statement became a diplomatic benchmark and moral commitment for Japan, shaping the country's post-war conscience and reconciliation efforts. Murayama's tenure as prime minister from 1994 to 1996 was marked by significant challenges, including the Kobe earthquake and the Tokyo subway sarin attack. Despite retiring from politics, he remained a vocal critic of efforts to revise Japan's wartime history and was committed to peace until his passing. His legacy endures as a symbol of humility and courage in confronting Japan's past and promoting peace in the region.