Minister's Gaffe and Resignation
's Agriculture Minister resigned over comments about never buying rice due to gifts from supporters, seen as insensitive during a rice price crisis. Prime Minister accepted his resignation.
Eto's remark and subsequent resignation put additional pressure on Ishiba's government, which faces a national election in July and has seen a decline in public support.
Rice Crisis Context
Japan is experiencing a rice price crisis, with prices doubling since last year. The government has released rice from emergency stockpiles, but it hasn't significantly affected prices or supply.
Factors contributing to the crisis include poor harvests due to hot weather in 2023, increased production costs, and a government policy criticized by some experts. The crisis has become a top concern for Japanese voters.