Ricketts orders flags to fly at half-staff to honor former Japanese prime minister

LINCOLN, Neb. (KSNB) - Nebraska Governor Pete Ricketts offered prayers to the people of Japan following the assassination of former Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe.

Abe was assassinated Friday on a street in western Japan by a gunman who opened fire on him from behind as he delivered a campaign speech.

Governor Ricketts said Abe was a great statesman, whose leadership made an impact far beyond Japan’s borders, growing meaningful partnerships between Nebraska and Japan.

Gov. Ricketts asked that flags be flown at half staff until July 10.

Shinzo Abe was a great statesman, whose leadership made an impact far beyond Japan’s borders. He helped grow meaningful partnerships between NE & Japan. Grateful I could personally thank him at a trade mission a few years ago. NE’s prayers are with Japan as they mourn his death. pic.twitter.com/wK02IRBfLm
— Gov. Pete Ricketts (@GovRicketts) July 8, 2022