[Asia Economy Reporter Changhwan Lee] Hanashi Yasuhiro, Japan's Minister of Justice (equivalent to Minister of Justice), who faced criticism for belittling his duties as "simply stamping the death penalty execution," is reportedly set to be dismissed, local media reported on the 11th.
Prime Minister Fumio Kishida conveyed his intention to replace Minister Hanashi to ruling party officials on the same day. Hirokazu Matsuno, Chief Cabinet Secretary and spokesperson for the Japanese government, announced at a regular press conference that Minister Hanashi had submitted his resignation to Prime Minister Kishida.
On the 9th, Minister Hanashi attended a gathering and said, "Generally, the Minister of Justice stamps the death penalty execution in the morning. The only time the position makes the news headlines is then, making it a modest role," adding, "Even as Minister of Justice, money does not accumulate, and it is difficult to gain votes."
Following these remarks, criticism arose not only from opposition parties but also within the ruling party, calling for his early resignation due to his belittling of the ministerial duties.
Prime Minister Kishida was scheduled to depart in the afternoon for an ASEAN-related summit in Phnom Penh, Cambodia, but postponed his departure to the 12th due to the controversy over the ministerial replacement.
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