Japan’s Agriculture Minister, Taku Eto, stepped down following a controversial remark that he never had to buy rice because he received so much from his supporters. His comment, made during a time of surging rice prices, triggered public backlash and political pressure. Eto acknowledged that he was no longer suitable for the role and issued a public apology, saying he deeply regretted his insensitive comment. He emphasized his awareness of the public’s hardship due to the soaring cost of rice.
Eto’s Gaffe Deepens Political Crisis Amid Rising Rice Prices and Election Pressure
The timing of Eto’s gaffe was politically damaging, coming just weeks before crucial upper house elections. The cost of rice—Japan’s staple food—has reached record highs, making it a national concern. Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba’s government, already struggling with declining approval ratings due to the high cost of living, faced additional pressure from the fallout. Eto’s remarks amplified dissatisfaction with how the administration has handled the rice crisis.
Japan’s Agriculture Minister Quits After Rice Price Gaffe Fuels Voter Backlash and Political InstabilityPublic frustration with the government’s response to inflation, particularly rice prices, poses a serious threat to Ishiba’s leadership. A recent Kyodo News poll showed cabinet approval at a low of 27.4%, with many households criticizing the government’s ineffective measures. The ruling Liberal Democratic Party, already weakened by a prior electoral defeat, now faces potential further losses that could destabilize Ishiba’s coalition and prompt calls for new leadership.
New Minister Appointed as Rice Prices Soar Despite Emergency Measures and Imports Surge
Despite various government interventions, including releasing emergency rice reserves and increasing rice imports, prices have continued to climb. As of mid-May, rice costs nearly double compared to the same period last year, reaching 4,268 yen for five kilograms. Auctions of emergency reserves are ongoing, and Japan has begun importing rice not only from the U.S. but also from South Korea for the first time in decades, showing the severity of the domestic supply crisis.
In the wake of Eto’s resignation, Prime Minister Ishiba appointed Shinjiro Koizumi, a former environment minister with strong political lineage, as the new Agriculture Minister. Koizumi is tasked with stabilizing rice prices and restoring public confidence. Ishiba has charged him with ensuring a steady supply of rice at affordable prices, a critical issue that could influence the upcoming election and the broader stability of the ruling coalition.
