By Hadiza Abdulkadir
Japan’s Agriculture Minister, Taku Eto, has resigned after facing intense backlash for saying he has never bought rice because he receives it for free.
The remark, made during a parliamentary session, was widely condemned as tone-deaf, particularly given Japan’s current rice shortages and rising prices, which are attributed to poor harvests and global supply issues.
Critics accused Eto of being out of touch with ordinary citizens and disrespecting struggling farmers.
“I deeply regret my careless words,” Eto said in a brief statement. Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba accepted the resignation and vowed to appoint a replacement soon.
The incident has reignited debate over privilege and accountability among Japan’s political elite.