Iwao Hakamada Acquitted After 46 Years on Death Row

Iwao Hakamada, an 88-year-old former boxer, has been acquitted of murder by the Shizuoka District Court, ending what is believed to be the longest time spent on death row in the world at 46 years. His conviction for the 1966 quadruple murder was overturned after evidence was found to be fabricated and his initial confessions were deemed invalid due to inhumane treatment during interrogation. Hakamada expressed immense relief, stating, 'Finally I have won full and complete victory,' during a public gathering with supporters. His acquittal is not yet final, as prosecutors have until October 10 to decide whether to appeal the ruling. Human rights groups have hailed this decision as a crucial moment for justice in Japan, which maintains capital punishment despite widespread criticism. Hakamada's case highlights ongoing concerns about the integrity of Japan's judicial system and the treatment of death row inmates.