The Power Harassment Scandal Involving Governor Motohiko Saito and the Growing Chaos in Hyogo Prefecture

“Who the hell do you think you are running for office?”

It could only be described as an unusual election campaign.

The voting for the recall election of Hyogo Prefectural Governor Saito Motohiko (47), following his disqualification, took place on November 17.

FRIDAY reporters had been closely following Saito since the day before. During a street speech in Nishinomiya, the crowd overflowed, filling not only the venue but also the road on the opposite side, the walkway linking the station, and nearby commercial buildings. A housewife in her 50s at the venue passionately said,

“During the time of the investigative committee and no-confidence motions, the media relentlessly criticized Saito. It just looked like bullying. We need Saito to continue as governor, as he increased the prefecture’s savings and provided substantial support for fertility treatment.”

There were also high school girls in uniforms present. One of them said, “I’m a second-year high school student, so I can’t vote, but I came because I wanted to see Saito.” She continued,

“At school, we talk about Saito. Everyone has different opinions, but I think Saito is not at fault. The media doesn’t report the truth, but we have social media. The public servant’s suicide was not Saito’s fault. If I had the right to vote, I would vote for Saito.”

During Saito’s speech, there were also shouts of insults, and a group was walking with a sign that read, “Saito Motohiko’s supporters are arrested too often.” In fact, during the election period, riots occurred frequently, and arrests were made.

Around 5:30 PM that same day, an estimated 3,000 people gathered for what was considered the “grand finale” speech in Sannomiya, Kobe. It was a far cry from the scene when he was first disqualified, where he was ignored by everyone, bowing repeatedly in front of the station. After finishing his speech, Saito left the scene, receiving loud chants of “Saito!” from the crowd. It was reminiscent of the fervor seen at the U.S. presidential election rallies for Donald Trump. Everyone was swept up in the excitement.