Japanese city mayor apologises for calling colleagues ‘human scum’

The mayor of Yokohama has apologised for insulting colleagues after an official publicly accused him of making offensive remarks.

At a news conference, the Japanese city’s human resource chief, Jun Kubota, alleged that Mayor Takeharu Yamanaka had used terms such as “idiot” and “human scum” to disparage staff.

It is highly unusual in Japan for a serving city official to openly accuse a sitting mayor and demand an apology.

Yamanaka initially denied the allegations, but later admitted to some of them. “I want to frankly apologise for placing a psychological burden on the personnel director,” he said.

At a news conference on Thursday, Kubota accused Mayor Yamanaka of repeatedly making remarks towards officials – including himself – that could amount to workplace harassment.

The mayor was accused of calling officials “useless”, “silly” and “low-spec”, as well as making comments about colleagues’ appearance and likening them to animals.

He is also accused of threatening Kubota, saying he would have to “commit seppuku” – a Japanese ritual suicide by disembowelment – if he failed to secure an international conference bid.

Kubota demanded an apology from Yamanaka and called for an investigation.

Yamanaka initially published a statement on his personal website, denying the allegations.

But on Friday, he publicly acknowledged some remarks – such as using words like “idiot” and “human scum” – and apologised.

“I am reflecting on this. I will be more careful with my words and behaviour,” Yamanaka said.

He said those comments were made during discussions over personnel evaluations.

However, the mayor denied other accusations, including insulting colleagues’ appearance.

Yamanaka said an investigation was being considered under the supervision of the deputy mayor, adding that he would co-operate “sincerely” if an investigation takes place.

In response, Kubota insisted Yamanaka had made the comments he has not admitted to, saying: “The mayor doesn’t understand anything. I cannot accept that as an apology. I want him to change.”