Yasuhiko Funago, a former House of Councilors lawmaker with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, or ALS, called on politicians to guarantee the right to ¡°live until the end,¡± in a recent written interview.

The retired lawmaker of Reiwa Shinsengumi, an opposition party, served one six-year term in the Upper House before deciding not to seek re-election in this July¡¯s election.

In the interview, conducted in writing as he cannot speak, Funago expressed strong concern about social pressures that could make it difficult for people with severe illnesses and disabilities to live.