Japan’s top government spokesperson says his deputy has denied pressuring investigative authorities in connection with a case involving his wife.
Weekly magazine Shukan Bunshun has reported on the allegations involving Deputy Chief Cabinet Secretary Kihara Seiji.
The weekly said police have questioned Kihara’s wife on a voluntary basis over the suspicious death of her former husband in 2006. It also said Kihara is suspected of exerting pressure to curtail the investigation.
Speaking to reporters on Friday, Chief Cabinet Secretary Matsuno Hirokazu said Kihara had told him that the allegations are baseless.
Kihara is quoted as saying that he is urging the press to ask the investigative authorities to provide the facts related to the police response.
Asked if Kihara will remain in his post, Matsuno said he has Kihara’s report and is not seeking further action.
Meantime, the head of the largest opposition Constitutional Democratic Party has called the allegations horrendous if true. Izumi Kenta said at a news conference on Friday that Kihara should hold himself accountable, and deliver the facts.