Key Facts
• July 8: Yosuke Tsuruho, a Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) lawmaker, made controversial remarks.
• He stated, “Luckily, there was an earthquake in Noto,” during a campaign event.
• July 9: Tsuruho apologized, retracting his statement, citing lack of sensitivity to victims.
• He avoided clarifying his resignation plans, saying he was not considering leaving the party.
• His apology drew further criticism due to his occasional smirking during the press conference.
• LDP Minister Shinjiro Koizumi condemned the remarks as “unacceptable” and indefensible.
• Tsuruho has a history of controversial statements, including remarks in 2016 as Minister for Okinawa and Northern Territories.
• Past comments included suggesting reduced budgets for Okinawa and linking military bases to economic development.
• He also defended discriminatory remarks by police officers in Okinawa, sparking backlash.
• Personal controversies include alleged verbal abuse toward his pregnant wife in 2013.
Summary
Yosuke Tsuruho, a Japanese lawmaker from the Liberal Democratic Party, faced widespread criticism after stating, “Luckily, there was an earthquake in Noto,” during a campaign event on July 8. He apologized the following day, retracting the comment and acknowledging insensitivity toward disaster victims. However, his smirking during the apology fueled further outrage. Prominent party members, including Minister Shinjiro Koizumi, condemned the remarks as unacceptable. Tsuruho’s history of controversial statements, including remarks about Okinawa’s budget and military bases, has also resurfaced. Personal allegations of verbal abuse toward his pregnant wife in 2013 further tarnish his reputation. The incident raises questions about his suitability as a public official.
