The decision by Japan to name a public holiday in honour of its emperor who reigned during World War II is raising concern. There is fear that the fascist elements within the Japanese government are growing stronger.

To make matters worse, Japan refuses to censure its education authorities who have whitewashed the country's military past.

Sadly, the Prime Minister of Japan, J. Koizumi continues to irk the international community by faithfully visiting the shrine of fallen Japanese soldiers. Not to mention the common practice in Japan of categorising people according to their blood groups and using it as an indicator for choosing prospective employees, life partners etc.

Unfortunately, evaluating people according to physical characteristics denies the individuality of the human race and thus infuses fascist ideology into society.

Japan's growing interest in spreading its military wings internationally by its decision to send its troops to Iraq should serve as an early warning system for impending disaster. Japan should honour its commitment and promise to never to militarise after WW II and keep its troops well within its own borders.