Akiko Wada Defends Yuichiro Tamaki’s Affair as Serious Relationship

He’s absolutely fine when it comes to his relationships with women.

On November 17, during the broadcast of “Akko ni Omakase!” (TBS), MC Akiko Wada (74) made controversial comments defending Yuichiro Tamaki (55), leader of the Democratic Party for the People, regarding his affair with a former gravure idol.

Wada stated,

“He admitted it himself. After that, it’s a matter between husband and wife, and it’s not something we should interfere with.”

She further revealed that she knew someone close to Tamaki and added,

“Tamaki is a serious person, and someone who said he absolutely had no issues with women. Since this happened, I believe he had a serious relationship. He said he was attracted to her.”

She made comments that seemed to justify the affair.

In response, there was a flood of harsh reactions on Yahoo comments and social media, such as:

“What’s she talking about!? A serious relationship while he has a wife?”

“Isn’t there anything suspicious about money matters too?”

“Akiko Wada is really out of touch lately, it’s awful.”

These are just a few of the harsh reactions flooding in.

 

An Affair Visible at the Constitutional Review Committee

On March 15th, “Bunshun Online” reported that Yuichiro Tamaki’s affair partner, former gravure idol and talent Miyuki Koizumi (39), had been attending the Constitutional Review Committee meetings where Tamaki was present for about two years. After Tamaki’s statements, she was seen clapping and even standing up to point at individuals who heckled him.

In response, Tamaki posted on X (formerly Twitter),

“Anyone can attend the Constitutional Review Committee meetings, not just this one.”

He continued,

“I have never asked anyone to make any kind of statement on my behalf. I categorically deny some of the content in the articles that were released.”

However, he did not comment on whether his affair partner was present at the meetings.

“During his apology press conference, Tamaki focused on his wife in his statements. Considering his future political career, it’s inevitable that he will have to break up with Koizumi. Since she knew he was married, it’s her own fault, but her career as a talent has become quite difficult. There are rumors that she may be dismissed from her position as Takamatsu City’s tourism ambassador. However, for now, Tamaki continues as the party leader with no repercussions. Still, there are voices saying that this situation is unfair, and the issue is still smoldering,” said a source from a wide-show production.

Many people are supporting Tamaki, believing that his policy on increasing take-home pay is more directly related to the public’s livelihood, and thus prioritizing his policies over his affairs. Wada’s defense of him, saying it’s a matter between husband and wife and calling it a serious relationship, might reflect this public sentiment.