Asia-Pacific

Japan reconstruction minister resigns over remarks

(Agencies)
Updated: 2011-07-05 09:10

TOKYO — Japan's new disaster reconstruction minister submitted his resignation Tuesday after making remarks widely criticized as offensive during a visit to the earthquake-devasted northeast coast, where he refused to shake a governor's hand, scolded the official and threatened to withhold aid.

Japan's former environment and reconstruction minister Ryu Matsumoto speaks at a news conference after resigning his post, in Tokyo July 5, 2011 after resigning his post. [Photo/Agencies]

In meetings with local governors over the weekend, Ryu Matsumoto appeared arrogant and uncaring, angering local residents and political opponents. He told the governor of Iwate, one of the hardest-hit prefectures, that the government would not help municipalities that did not have good ideas about rebuilding.

In talks with Miyagi Gov. Yoshihiro Murai, Matsumoto expressed frustration that he was made to wait for the governor's arrival. Matsumoto refused to shake Murai's hand when he entered the room and scolded the visibly surprised governor.

"When a guest comes to visit, do not call up the guest until you have arrived in the room," he told Murai. "Do you understand?"

He then warned journalists in the room not to report his words. They were widely reported in the media.

Prime Minister Naoto Kan appointed 60-year-old Matsumoto to the new post of disaster reconstruction minister last month. He also stepped down from his second post as disaster management minister.

Chief Cabinet Secretary Yukio Edano told reporters that Kan accepted Matsumoto's resignation and hopes to appoint a replacement as soon as possible, according to Kyodo News agency.

At a news conference Tuesday, Matsumoto did not explain why he resigned and pledged to keep supporting recovery efforts.

"I have many things I would like to say," a teary-eyed Matsumoto said. "But I will be gone from now."

The latest scandal is a new blow to the embattled leader, who faces lackluster ratings in public opinion polls for his handling of the March 11 earthquake, tsunami and subsequent nuclear crisis.

The disaster devastated Japan's northeast coast, destroying towns, homes and businesses. More than 22,600 people are dead or missing.