TOKYO (Reuters – Japan’s prime minister Fumio Kishida makes his first appearance in parliamentary questioning Monday. The opposition will have the opportunity to examine Kishida’s claims and plans since he was elected last week.

The general election is scheduled for three weeks. It will be a crucial time to discuss the future of coronavirus and the rebuilding of a fragile economy.

Experts warn of an increase in coronavirus cases in Japan, despite Japan currently experiencing a low number of infections.

Main opposition party supports expanding testing. It has also previously stated that Japan must stop trying to get out of soft lockdowns.

Kishida has, however, stated that government will create a package of stimulus to aid post-coronavirus recovery and support people who have been affected hard by the pandemic.

Kishida has also advocated “new capitalism”, which closes the wealth gap to help the economy get out of its ruts.

However, his practicality may be questioned as he has slowed down his plans to review the tax system on dividends and capital gains in order to redistribute wealth.

For the moment, I don’t plan on tackling the income tax financial. Kishida stated that there are other issues to be addressed first on Sunday.

An opposition question could be made to Kishida about the party manifesto before Oct. 31’s general election. A draft obtained from Reuters shows that the Liberal Democratic Party (LDP), the current ruling party, wants to increase the defense budget if it is possible.

Japan is facing an assertive China, North Korea and their nuclear and missile programs – issues Kishida expressed concern about and said he was determined to defend the Japanese people in a more difficult security environment.