Japan’s Upper House Approves Bill to Revise Retrial System

The House of Councillors Justice Committee in Japan has approved a bill to amend the Code of Criminal Procedure, a move designed to revise the nation’s retrial system. The legislative measure passed following a committee vote that secured a majority in favour from the ruling Liberal Democratic Party, the Nippon Ishin no Kai, and the Sanseito Party.

The amendment represents a significant step in the government’s agenda to adjust legal procedures surrounding criminal appeals. By updating the Code of Criminal Procedure, the proposed changes aim to modify the mechanisms through which retrials are initiated and conducted, although the specific technical details of these revisions have not been disclosed in the available reporting.

Political support for the bill was consolidated among the three major parties currently backing the administration. The combined voting power of the Liberal Democratic Party, Nippon Ishin no Kai, and Sanseito Party ensured the measure’s passage through the Justice Committee, reflecting a unified approach to legal reform within the upper house.

Government officials have indicated a tight timeline for the legislation’s finalisation. The administration intends to secure final passage of the bill during the full House of Councillors session scheduled for 17 July 2026. This rapid progression from committee approval to plenary vote underscores the priority placed on the reform by the ruling coalition.

The approval marks a procedural milestone for the retrial system overhaul. With the committee stage concluded, the focus now shifts to the full chamber, where the government expects to formalise the amendments to the Code of Criminal Procedure, pending the outcome of the upcoming session.