Quote Originally Posted by thomas
No, as the JT article indicated this seems to be more related to the recent tsunami of homicides/infanticides. While there is certainly a lot of hidden aggression and/or frustration in Japanese society I don't think that the application of dealth penalty is a feasible way of venting such feelings - unless NHK decides to broadcast executions live.
I could very well imagine the US putting them on TV, but certainly not Japan.
I'd say the reason is the recent wave of crimes, especially the murder of the girl in Nara caused quite an outcry.