Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida announced on Monday that he was dismissing his son, Shotaro Kishida, from his position as secretary, accused of “improper behavior” at the official residence, reports AFP.
Last week, a magazine wrote that the prime minister’s son invited several of his close friends to a party at the head of government’s official residence in Tokyo last year. The publication featured photos of several participants simulating a press conference and a guest lying on a red carpeted staircase.
“His behavior last year in the public space was inappropriate for a political secretary and we decided to replace him,” the prime minister told the media, specifying that the dismissal takes effect on June 1.
Fumio Kishida had already reprimanded his 32-year-old son, but the opposition stepped up their criticism, calling for his resignation. It was not the first time that Shotaro Kishida’s attitude was considered reprehensible, AFP reminds. He used official cars for trips to Europe in order to buy souvenirs for ministers, notes AFP, quoted by Agerpres.
In the past three months, four ministers have left Japan’s government after allegations of financial irregularities or links to a controversial cult – the Moon sect, also known as the Unification Church.
Editor: Liviu Cojan
