Key Facts
• October 9: Jiji Press announced strict warning to male cameraman.
• October 7: Remarks made during a break at Liberal Democratic Party headquarters.
• Remarks included: “I’ll lower the approval rating” and “Only release photos that lower it.”
• Audio captured during live internet broadcast and spread on social media.
• Jiji Press confirmed other remarks were not made by the cameraman.
• Editorial Director Seimitsu Fujino cited concerns over fairness and neutrality in reporting.
• Company President Hiroshi Saito apologized to affected parties, including the Liberal Democratic Party.
• Jiji Press pledged to reinforce employee training to ensure journalistic integrity.
Summary
Jiji Press issued a strict warning to a male cameraman on October 9 after his remarks, made during a break at the Liberal Democratic Party headquarters on October 7, were captured and spread online. The comments, including “I’ll lower the approval rating,” raised concerns about the neutrality and fairness of reporting. Editorial Director Seimitsu Fujino emphasized the importance of maintaining public trust, while President Hiroshi Saito apologized to the Liberal Democratic Party and other affected parties. Jiji Press confirmed that other remarks circulating online were not made by the cameraman and committed to improving employee training to uphold journalistic standards.
