TOKYO: Japanese Trade Minister Isshu Sugawara resigned on Friday, following accusations of election law violations.
Prime Minister Shinzo Abe said he had accepted Sugawara’s resignation and asked Hiroshi Kajiyama to take the helm at the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry.
“I bear responsibility for his appointment and I deeply apologize to the people of Japan for this result,” Abe told reporters at his office.
Sugawara had been under pressure after media said he had given gifts to voters in his Tokyo constituency, such as expensive melons and crabs, and offered condolence money to the family of a supporter, in possible violations of campaign law.
(Agencies)
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