Tokyo 2020 Campaigner Naoki Inose Leaves Governor Role Following Loan Scandal

Tokyo’s Governor Naoki Inose, who helped bring the Olympic Games to the capital city of Japan in 2020, has resigned after admitting he received money from a scandal-hit hospital chain ahead of an election.

Naoki Inose described the 50m yen ($500,000; £300,000) payment as a personal loan from operator Tokushukai.

He said he would resign to avoid affecting preparations for the Tokyo 2020 Olympics. Inose was elected leader of one of the world’s biggest cities in December last year. He said he had paid back the loan from Tokushukai.

Announcing his resignation, he said: “I shouldn’t be delaying government operations or stalling preparations for the Olympics and Paralympics any longer.”

“I intended to fulfil my duty of explaining to the city assembly, people of Tokyo and people of the nation, but regrettably I could not clear doubts over me. It’s solely because of my lack of virtue.”

He added: “The only solution is for me to step down as governor.”

Tsunekazu Takeda, Japanese Olympic Committee President, commented on Inose’s resignation: “Mr Inose has been a fervent and enthusiast supporter of Tokyo’s bid to host the Games, and I would like to thank him for his tireless efforts and contribution to Tokyo’s successful bid campaign.

“The Japanese Olympic Committee will continue working closely together with senior officials from the Tokyo Metropolitan Government and the national government towards preparations for the Olympic and Paralympic Games. Tokyo 2020’s immediate focus remains firmly on finalising the establishment of the Organising Committee to ensure the successful delivery of the Games.”

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