A female employee was summoned to the mayor’s office for four consecutive days and touched her crotch… Gifu’s harassing mayor submits resignation; family says, “My family called me a ‘naked king”’ | News from the Tokai region[CBC news]

Thursday, April 25, 2024 16:31

Kazuo Okazaki (76), the mayor of Ikeda Town, Gifu Prefecture, was found to have sexually harassed 15 people, including his employees.

On the morning of April 25th, he submitted his resignation and said that he was a “naked king.”

(Gifu/Ikeda Town Mayor Kazuo Okazaki around 10am on the 25th)
“He lacked feelings for others. He was particularly self-centered and a naked king.”

The town’s top official described himself as the “naked king.”

Kazuo Okazaki (76), the mayor of Ikeda Town, Gifu Prefecture.

Sexual harassment against 15 employees was revealed on the 24th.

A report compiled by a third-party committee found that 15 employees had been sexually harassed, including “trying to kiss her, touching her buttocks,” and “hugging her.”

In one case, he called a female employee to the mayor’s office for four consecutive days and touched her upper arms, thighs, and groin area.

(24th Third Party Committee Chairman Takahiko Haba)
“(The mayor has been uncooperative with the investigation). I think he has not shown enough remorse.”

Mayor Okazaki took office in 2003 and is currently in his sixth term.

The sexual harassment began about 20 years ago, around the same time he took office as mayor.

The third-party committee concluded that Mayor Okazaki should resign, as he showed no signs of trying to improve his behavior.

Then, on the 24th, Mayor Okazaki spoke to the press after leaving the town hall…

(Mayor Okazaki)
“I have finally written (a resignation letter) just now. I said, ‘I would like to resign for personal reasons.’ My hands were shaking.”