Japan Government Dismisses Senior Official Over Extramarital Affair

Japan’s government announced on June 19 that it replaced a senior official, a close aide to Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi, in what amounts to a dismissal after reports of an extramarital affair involving state-funded business trips.

According to Kyodo News, the incident has shaken the Japanese cabinet, particularly as it involves a senior aide to the prime minister. State-funded business trips were reportedly used for personal purposes, leading to the official being forced to leave his post.

The replacement decision comes as Japan’s government seeks to strengthen discipline and transparency in public service operations. The case has also sparked controversy over the use of state funds and the ethical conduct of senior officials.