Key Facts
Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba has effectively dismissed Agriculture, Forestry, and Fisheries Minister Tetsuo Eto following controversial remarks that sparked public and political backlash. Eto had stated, “I have never bought rice,” a comment deemed highly inappropriate given the ongoing challenges of rising rice prices affecting Japanese households.
On the morning of May 21, Eto submitted his resignation to Prime Minister Ishiba at the Prime Minister’s Office, citing his inability to continue effectively managing agricultural policies under the current circumstances. In a public statement, Eto expressed deep regret for his remarks, apologizing to the public and acknowledging the need to lower rice prices. He stated, “If my actions have eroded public trust, stepping down is the best course of action for the nation.”
Prime Minister Ishiba accepted Eto’s resignation, taking full responsibility as the appointing authority. “As the one who granted the appointment, I must bear all criticism,” Ishiba remarked. This marks the first resignation of a cabinet member due to a scandal since the Ishiba administration was formed in October 2024.
The opposition parties had united in a strong stance against Eto, threatening to submit a no-confidence motion if he remained in office. This pressure, combined with public outrage and criticism from rice farmers, led to Eto’s effective dismissal.
To address the leadership gap, Ishiba has decided to appoint Shinjiro Koizumi, a former Environment Minister and a senior member of the Liberal Democratic Party, as the new Agriculture Minister. Koizumi, who has previously chaired the party’s agricultural policy committee, is expected to bring expertise and reform-oriented leadership to the role. Ishiba emphasized the importance of resolving the rice price issue and advancing agricultural reforms, stating, “We need someone with the vision and determination to tackle these challenges.”
Koizumi is scheduled to formally assume the position following an official certification ceremony at the Imperial Palace later on May 21.
For further details, visit the original article.
Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba has replaced Agriculture Minister Tetsuo Eto following public and political backlash over Eto’s controversial statement, “I have never bought rice.” The comment was criticized as insensitive amid rising rice prices affecting households.
On May 21, Eto submitted his resignation, citing his inability to effectively manage agricultural policies under the circumstances. In a public apology, he expressed regret for his remarks and acknowledged the need to address rice price issues. “If my actions have eroded public trust, stepping down is the best course of action for the nation,” Eto stated.
Prime Minister Ishiba accepted the resignation, taking full responsibility as the appointing authority. This marks the first cabinet resignation due to a scandal since Ishiba’s administration began in October 2024. Opposition parties had threatened a no-confidence motion against Eto, further pressuring his departure.
To fill the vacancy, Ishiba appointed Shinjiro Koizumi, a former Environment Minister and senior Liberal Democratic Party member, as the new Agriculture Minister. Koizumi, who previously chaired the party’s agricultural policy committee, is expected to focus on resolving rice price challenges and advancing agricultural reforms. Ishiba emphasized the need for “vision and determination” in addressing these issues.
Koizumi will officially assume the role after a certification ceremony at the Imperial Palace later on May 21.
For more details, visit the original article.
