Key Facts
• On September 2, Haruko Arimura spoke at the LDP’s joint plenary meeting.
• Arimura discussed preparations with PM Shigeru Ishiba before the meeting.
• Viral video showed Arimura speaking for 30 seconds while Ishiba appeared unresponsive.
• Arimura clarified on X (formerly Twitter) that her actions were to ensure fairness.
• She explained her close speaking position was due to microphone sensitivity.
• Arimura emphasized the importance of preparing Ishiba for difficult questions.
• Social media criticized Ishiba’s expression as “unpleasant” during the interaction.
• Taro Aso praised Arimura’s handling of the meeting on September 3.
• Arimura prioritized fairness over expressing her stance on a potential leadership election.
Summary
Haruko Arimura, chair of the Liberal Democratic Party’s joint plenary meeting, addressed a viral video showing her interaction with Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba before the September 2 meeting. The video, which depicted Ishiba’s seemingly unresponsive demeanor, sparked criticism online. Arimura clarified on X (formerly Twitter) that her actions aimed to ensure fairness and prepare Ishiba for challenging questions. She explained her close speaking position was due to microphone sensitivity. Despite the controversy, Taro Aso commended her meeting management. Arimura emphasized prioritizing the meeting’s integrity over expressing her views on a potential leadership election.
