A young Tokyo politician has announced plans to develop a new AI tool to carry out several tasks, including managing political funds. The politician also wants the AI tool to shape policies and aggregate public opinion. However, the decision has not been well received by the general public, with users noting that it is in line with the ideas of AI rulership proposed by the J-gov.
A hopeful in the Tokyo gubernatorial race, Takahiro Anno feels AI can help Japan run a clean government. According to reports, Anno, who came fifth in Tokyo’s election in 2024, will open-source the tool, allowing it to carry out the desired tasks.
Tokyo politician floats controversial ‘Digital Democracy 2030’
According to his statement during a speech in Shinjiku Ward, Tokyo, on January 16, the Tokyo politician explained that his vision will allow AI to take a central role in shaping politics. According to a Nikkei report, the tool will carry out tasks ranging from managing political funds to aggregating public opinion.
While the idea might be wishful thinking from a science geek obsessed about AI and its usefulness, Anno has ties to the current GovTech Tokyo advisor, one which he might put to good use. The organization oversees digital transformation and is sponsored by the Tokyo Metropolitan Government.
This idea is fresh off a previous proposal made by the Digital Administrative and Financial Reform Council, to use drones, robots, and artificial intelligence in state surveillance. The tools will be used to govern the nation, an idea that falls right in line with Anno’s proposal.
Mixed reaction trails Anno’s proposal
Residents have taken to social media to voice their reactions, with the atmosphere signaling one of mixed responses. Some residents were even asking if there were any more important issues to attend to in the region. Meanwhile, others said the idea was amazing, waiting for its implementation if it gets approved.
Japanese are currently undergoing hardships, with everyday residents struggling with rising costs of food and a growing population that cannot be catered for by the state’s poverty-line pension. This is why most people were questioning Anno’s proposal, urging the country to focus on the dire issues.