In a recent development, Hyogo Prefecture has taken decisive action against a senior official for their involvement in circulating documents that defame Governor Motohiko Saito and other top officials. The prefecture announced on the 27th that they had dismissed the Director of the Nishi-Harima Citizens’ Bureau, aged 60, for their role in spreading these harmful documents.
The Director, who was scheduled to retire at the end of the month, refused retirement, prompting the prefecture to consider disciplinary measures instead. According to Governor Saito’s explanation during a regular press conference, the Director had utilized a workplace computer to create and distribute these defamatory documents. The Director themselves admitted to this misconduct.
The documents, which contained disparaging remarks about Governor Saito and other senior officials, were sent to several media outlets, prefectural assembly members, and even the police. Governor Saito expressed the possibility of filing a police report regarding the matter, underscoring the severity of the situation.
In response to these actions, the prefecture has taken steps to address the issue. They have transferred the Director to a different department and will demote them to a lower position from April 1st onwards, in accordance with mandatory retirement regulations. Despite their involvement, the Director will continue their duties in this new capacity.
Moreover, the prefecture has also opted not to accept the retirement of a 55-year-old female official who had been planning to retire voluntarily. This decision stems from suspicions of her involvement in the distribution of the defamatory documents, highlighting the comprehensive approach taken by Hyogo Prefecture to address the issue and uphold integrity within its ranks.
As this situation unfolds, it serves as a reminder of the importance of maintaining professionalism and ethical conduct in the workplace, particularly among public officials entrusted with serving the community. Hyogo Prefecture’s swift and decisive response underscores their commitment to accountability and transparency in governance.
Kobe Shinbun
