Man Who Shot Former Japanese PM Shinzo Abe Gets Life Term

While not affiliated, Abe, similar to other Japanesepolitical figures, would sometimes attend events related to the church. His grandfather Nobusuke Kishi, who also served as prime minister, was reportedly linked to the organization due to its anti-communist beliefs.

In March of the previous year, a Tokyo court rescinded the church's designation as a religious entity, concluding that it manipulated followers into purchasing costly items by preying on their worries regarding their spiritual health.

The group has also faced criticism for conducting large wedding ceremonies that include thousands of couples.

Yamagami's sister, who served as a witness for the defense during his trial, shared an emotional account of the "harsh conditions she and her brothers faced" due to their mother's strong commitment to the church, Suzuki recalls.

"It was a profoundly emotional experience. Almost everyone in the public audience seemed to be in tears," he notes.

However, prosecutors contend there is "a leap in reasoning" regarding why Yamagami's anger towards the church was directed at Abe. Throughout the trial, the judges posed inquiries indicating they struggled to comprehend this facet of his defense.

Observers are also split on whether Yamagami's personal losses warrant a lighter sentence for his actions.

"It is challenging to dismantle the prosecution's argument that Abe did not directly cause harm to Yamagami or his family," Suzuki remarks.

Nevertheless, he argues that Yamagami's situation exemplifies how "individuals affected by societal issues can be driven to commit serious offenses."

"This cycle needs to be interrupted; we must thoroughly investigate the reasons behind his criminal act," Suzuki asserts.

Rin Ushiyama, a sociologist at Queen's University Belfast, indicates that the empathy towards Yamagami largely stems from "the pervasive suspicion and hostility in Japan towards controversial groups such as the Unification Church."

"Yamagami was undeniably a 'victim' of neglect from his parents and the financial struggles brought on by the [Unification Church], but that does not account for, much less justify, his [actions]," Ushiyama explains.