Photo/Illutration Figure of Alien Baltan (Asahi Shimbun file photo)

Did you know that Alien Baltan had a son? In “The Return of Ultraman,” Alien Baltan, Jr. tries to avenge his father, only to be killed by the very individual on whom he was seeking revenge.

The elder Alien Baltan, known as a space ninja, is arguably one of the biggest and most popular stars in the world of fictitious monsters. And his background adds interest: His hometown was obliterated in a nuclear explosion, and he came to planet Earth as a refugee.

It is probably because of his oustanding greatness that his son has remained rather obscure.

Now, how do we see Prime Minister Fumio Kishida’s appointment of his 31-year-old eldest son, Shotaro Kishida, as his executive secretary?

The prime minister explained his decision was simply due to the fact his son is a good fit for the post. But it appears the real reason is to groom Shotaro into the Kishida family’s fourth-generation Diet member. This has aroused a flurry of criticism against the prime minister for what is perceived as blatant nepotism.

When not only two but four generations of family members follow the same profession, the only expression that comes to mind is “family business.”

It is one thing for families of traditional performing artists to hand down their “secret” tricks of trade from generation to generation.

But in politics? What does Kishida think he is doing?

It is quite natural that even within his own problem-ridden administration, his critics are asking, “Why now?”

I am certainly not saying that all “hereditary legislators” are bad. There are, in fact, many fine examples. However, one of every four Lower House seats today has been “inherited,” and that is definitey too many.

In a democracy, the national legislature ought to represent diversity to remain a microcosm of society.

In his essay titled “Politics as a Vocation,” German sociologist Max Weber (1964-1920) stated to the effect that what should matter to politicians is the future and their responsibility for the future.

Prime Minister Kishida needs to bear that firmly in mind.

Alien Baltan may be stressing the number 4 as a warning. Oh yes, I can hear his voice saying, “Four, four, four, four.”

--The Asahi Shimbun, Oct. 15

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Vox Populi, Vox Dei is a popular daily column that takes up a wide range of topics, including culture, arts and social trends and developments. Written by veteran Asahi Shimbun writers, the column provides useful perspectives on and insights into contemporary Japan and its culture.

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