In a response to the ongoing corruption scandal engulfing Japan's political landscape, the Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) has made significant changes within its leadership. The party's governing body announced the replacement of two high-ranking executives on Friday, who were in charge of policy and parliamentary affairs. These developments come as prosecutors investigate allegations of political finance law violations by LDP ministers and lawmakers.

The outgoing executives belonged to a faction within the LDP that was previously led by the late ex-Prime Minister Shinzo Abe. This faction has now expressed deep remorse in a statement for "eroding trust in politics" and pledged their full cooperation with the ongoing investigation. The faction's members, who previously enjoyed the support and influence of Abe, are now facing scrutiny for their alleged involvement in kickbacks and the creation of slush funds.

Hitoshi Tanaka, a former diplomat and special adviser to the Japan Research Institute, expressed concerns over the depth of the political funds scandal, suggesting that it has the potential to bring about regime change in Japan. Tanaka also emphasized the need for a more transparent and competitive process for selecting political leaders in the country.

Prime Minister Fumio Kishida, who has been sacking party chiefs and Cabinet members in a bid to salvage his administration, has vowed to regain the public's trust amidst the scandal. However, opinion polls indicate overwhelming disapproval of his handling of the situation, with 79% of respondents expressing their dissatisfaction - making it the worst approval rating for a Japanese leader in over seven decades.

While a change in administration could bring about significant policy changes, including in the country's relationship with the United States, Tanaka believes that support for Japan's alliance with the U.S. is likely to remain solid despite the ongoing scandal.

The factional infighting within the LDP, a characteristic of the party's structure since its inception 68 years ago, has also come into focus. Faction bosses wield significant power, rewarding members with government positions and electoral support. Hiroshi Izumi, a veteran political journalist, states that behind the corruption scandal lies a struggle among these factions. He further suggests that the scandal could mark the end of the Abe faction, symbolizing a shift in power within the LDP.

Prosecutors will have until the reopening of parliament in January to build their cases and take action against the lawmakers involved, as they cannot be arrested while the legislature is in session. The outcome of this scandal is likely to have far-reaching implications, potentially reshaping Japan's political landscape and leaving a lasting legacy for Prime Minister Kishida.

As this corruption scandal unfolds, Japanese democracy faces a crucial test of its strength and the ability to restore public trust in its political institutions.