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Official Statement from Family Federation for World Peace and Unification International ("Unification Church") On the Criminal Investigation of Former Prime Minister Shinzo Abe's Assassination
Some of these allegations were addressed at a Tokyo press conference convened by our Japanese headquarters. FFWPU International would like to share these verified facts.
Former Prime Minister Shinzo Abe sent brief remarks to two difference online 'Rally of Hope' events in the past year, which spoke on themes of peace in Asia . The events were hosted by the Universal Peace Federation (UPF) and other organizations, including FFWPU.
While UPF and FFWPU share the same founders, UPF is an independent NGO in general consultative status with the Economic and Social Council of the United Nations.
Mr. Yamagami, is not a member of FFWPU, nor do any of our records show a past affiliation. However, our own internal investigation can confirm that his mother is a member of FFWPU and participates occasionally in church activities.
Mr. Yamagami's reported allegation that his mother's donations to FFWPU caused family problems is a matter to be investigated by the police. Whatever his grievances, we wholeheartedly condemn violence and murder.
We can confirm that Mr. Yamagami test-fired his homemade weapon the night before the assassination at a building that was formerly used as a FFWPU church. Fortunately, no one was hurt.
Other than preliminary questions about the association of Mr. Yamagami with FFWPU, the police have not yet contacted us about this criminal investigation. Local representatives of FFWPU will fully cooperate with any inquiries from authorities and make relevant information available to the press as appropriate.
We ask that media organizations maintain their professional commitment to accuracy, impartiality, and objectivity.
FFWPU will redouble its efforts to foster a world of lasting peace. Once again, we are deeply saddened by the loss of one of the world's great statesmen. May God's grace and blessings be with the late prime minister, his family, the Japanese people, and those grieving around the world.
Mamadu Gaye
+27 (82) 964-0827; press.africa@familyfed.org
Demian Dunkley
+1 (619) 947-3311; press.asiapacific@familyfed.org
Peter Zoehrer
+43 664 5238794; press.eume@familyfed.org
Mario Salinas
+504 3161-6632; press.latinamerica@familyfed.org
Nancy Jubb
212-997-0057; press@familyfed.org
Ron Lucas
973-643-6262; rlucas@irvingstreetrep.com