The race for the top post in Japan's ruling party is heating up, with contentious debates over the promise of "cash handouts" casting a shadow. Some potential leaders are hinting at direct cash payments to citizens to boost the flagging economy, a move sparking controversy. Critics claim such a strategy may have short-term gains but raises long-term economic stability concerns.

Leadership contests in Japan are high-stake events closely followed by the citizens. The promises made by candidates often set the tone for future national policies. The floated idea of cash handouts directly to citizens is a particularly hot topic, as it involves significant fiscal policy and budgetary discussions. These would significantly affect the Japanese economy and, therefore, everyday lives.

In the U.S or E.U, stimulus checks or direct cash payments to citizens have been used as short-term solutions during economic crises, such as the recent COVID-19 pandemic. However, they're generally treated as temporary crisis measures rather than regular policy proposals and can also be a point of heated debate.