Farm minister faces fresh criticism over alleged vulgar remarks to journalist
Agriculture minister Kazuo Yana is under renewed scrutiny after reports he used coarse language toward a reporter during a visit to earthquake-hit Kumamoto.
Kazuo Yana, Japan's farm minister since September, is again in the spotlight following allegations that he insulted a reporter during a weekend trip to Kumamoto Prefecture, which was devastated by a July earthquake. According to Shukan Bunshun, Yana allegedly described the journalist's inquiries as "garbage questions" and used vulgar language while apologising to local representatives. The magazine also reports that Yana provided free bus transportation to his supporters for the 2024 and 2026 House of Representatives campaigns, a possible violation of the public offices act.
At a press conference, Yana said he cannot clearly remember making the comments but intends to confirm the details and issue an explanation later. Meanwhile, Takaichi expressed to parliament a desire to keep Yana, described as her right-hand man on agricultural policy, in his post.
