Member-only story
Japanese Public Fumes as Politicians Caught Gaming, Napping
An elementary student who exposed a politician gaming is the latest Japanese citizen to catch elected officials sleeping or goofing off.
By Marin Akasaka
Takahisa Sato, 73, a member of the Ogawara Town Council in Miyagi Prefecture was recently caught playing on his smartphone during a plenary session of the town’s council meeting. Sato, a veteran councilor elected five times and previously serving as council chairman, has a long history of public service. In response to the incident, he commented, “I deeply apologize for the trouble I have caused everyone. I am very sorry.”
According to the Town of Ogawara, a young student observing the council meeting as part of a school trip caught Sato playing a smartphone game during the session. In their reflections, the children commented on Sato’s behavior.
“I don’t understand why there was a council member playing games in the middle of the discussion.” “I wondered if someone like that is fit for a council member,” another student commented.
The Aftermath
To this, Sato responded stating, “I don’t recall playing games during the meeting, but several elementary school students claim they saw it, and I accept that as a fact. Rather than playing on it I was just looking at the screen,” he explained.
He apologized, stating further that “I did, in fact violate morality, whether if I was playing the game or just looking at it. I deeply regret that I caused the elementary school students to feel disappointed. I promise to act with a sense of urgency in the future.”
At the all-member council meeting harsh criticisms were voiced, with members stating that “it is shameful and indulgent,” that “council members have to always be conscious of their actions as council members.” The town passed a resolution recommending Sato’s resignation with a majority vote.
A recent report stated that Sato has resigned due to threats to his life. In an interview with the press, Sato apologized again, admitting that his actions were…
