Democratic Party of Japan heavyweight Ichiro Ozawa was indicted Monday over a shady land purchase and accounting irregularities linked to his political funds management body, making him the first politician to face trial based on a decision by citizens on a prosecution inquest committee.

Ozawa, known as a backroom deal-maker, will now face intensified pressure to exit the DPJ or even give up his seat as a lawmaker. His status also further undermines the DPJ-led government, which has been distracted by the alleged wrongdoing of its former leader since the party came into power in 2009.

Speaking to reporters in the evening, Ozawa again asserted his innocence.