Japanese Agriculture Minister Resigns Following Controversial Remarks

The Japanese Agriculture Minister has stepped down after making a statement about never biting into rice, asserting his freedom to do so. This resignation has prompted Prime Minister Isba to take action, as prices soar and voter frustration builds ahead of the upcoming Senate elections in July.

“I just informed Prime Minister Isba of my resignation,” Eto disclosed to reporters at the Prime Minister’s Office. His comments drew criticism, particularly after he admitted to relying on gifts from supporters for purchasing rice.

Eto had initially acknowledged the challenges consumers faced when the government released around 300,000 tonnes of rice from its emergency stock earlier this year, aiming to lower prices. However, during a fundraiser, he mentioned, “I’ve never bought my own meals because my supporters donated them.” This remark was seen as tone-deaf given the current situation.

Reports suggest that Eto will be succeeded by Onojima, a former environment minister who previously challenged Isba for leadership of the Liberal Democratic Party (LDP).

According to recent figures, Eto’s comments have further stirred discontent among consumers. He reportedly wrestled with whether he should still lead the agriculture ministry during a critical period marked by rising rice prices.

“I sincerely apologize for making such inappropriate remarks at a time when the Minister is grappling with escalating rice prices,” Eto stated, regretful of his impact on public sentiment.

Japan’s rice shortages stem from various issues, including poor harvests caused by hot weather in 2023 and panic reactions triggered by the 2024 “Megakoki” warning.

Prior to this, Isba had also issued apologies regarding Fuji’s remarks, as the continuing U.S. crisis and increasing household food and energy costs have further eroded the government’s popularity, with Senate elections approaching that could influence his tenure.

A recent survey indicated that 87% of people expressed dissatisfaction with the government’s efforts regarding rice pricing, while Isba’s cabinet approval ratings have reached a record low since he took office in October of last year.

The average price of a 5kg bag of rice in supermarkets recently hit 4,268 yen ($29), doubling from the previous year. In April, Japan imported rice from Korea for the first time in 25 years in response to consumer outrage.

Ogawa Junya, the executive director of the main opposition party, criticized Eto’s comments as “untouchable and unbearable.” Furthermore, Eto revealed that his remarks caused distress at home, admitting, “My wife mentioned she would buy rice when we ran out of donations.” He reflected that, “Our family doesn’t solely rely on these donated meals.”