‘This is the beginning’: 91-year-old sister of longest death row inmate sees hope in his acquittal
After spending many years advocating for her younger brother’s release from nearly 50 years on death row, Hideko Hakamada sees a glimmer of hope as he is finally acquitted. At 91 years old, she believes that they are embarking on a new chapter of their lives.
Supporting her brother, Iwao Hakamada, the world’s longest-serving death row inmate, Hideko stood by him through numerous legal battles while witnessing his mental health deteriorate. In an exclusive interview at her home in Hamamatsu, Japan, she shared her journey with The Associated Press.
Despite the challenges, Hideko remained steadfast in her commitment, even when faced with seemingly insurmountable obstacles. She financially supported her brother’s legal fees, visited him regularly in Tokyo, and worked to sway public opinion in his favour. It was a taxing ordeal, with moments of helplessness and frustration.
Maintaining her own identity separate from her brother’s plight, Hideko invested her savings in constructing a building, where they now reside together in rented apartments. Iwao Hakamada, a former boxer, was acquitted by the Shizuoka District Court in September, citing fabricated evidence and coerced confessions.
Recently, he received his voting ticket for parliamentary elections, indicating a restoration of his civil rights. Although he was freed from death row in 2014, this acquittal finally clears his name and reinstates his full rights. Hideko expressed immense joy at the verdict, highlighting the significance of his ability to participate in society again.
Despite the relief of his acquittal, Iwao Hakamada continues to struggle with his mental well-being, wavering between reality and fantasy. Unable to engage in an interview, he spends his time on daily outings which he perceives as “patrolling” the neighbourhood.
Convicted in 1968 for a quadruple murder, Iwao Hakamada’s case dragged through the Japanese legal system for decades. His sister’s unwavering belief in his innocence and her perseverance led to his retrial and subsequent acquittal, after enduring the longest stint on death row globally.
Hideko Hakamada’s strength and resilience throughout this ordeal have been commendable, as she navigated harsh public opinions and fears of her brother’s execution. Reflecting on the arduous journey, she credits her brother’s resilience for surviving the ordeal and emerging after more than five decades behind bars.
As they embark on this new chapter, Hideko remains determined and active at 91, exemplifying perseverance and a fighting spirit. She continues her daily exercise routine, symbolising her unwavering commitment to living life to its fullest. In her own words, “This is just the beginning.”