Japan finance official quits over harassment claims

TOKYO (AP): A senior Japanese finance ministry official resigned Wednesday over sexual misconduct allegations in the latest embarrassment for Prime Minister Shinzo Abe’s embattled government, already hit by cronyism and other scandals.

Vice Finance Minister Junichi Fukuda denied the allegations but submitted his resignation, citing difficulties carrying out his duties because of the escalating criticism and attention. Last week, the Weekly Shincho magazine published sexually suggestive remarks that Fukuda allegedly made to an unidentified female reporter earlier this year. The magazine released parts of what it said was an audio recording of Fukuda’s remarks, and alleged that he routinely made similar comments to female reporters in private conversations. Fukuda told reporters that he couldn’t tell if the voice was his. “But at least I have no recollection of making an outrageous conversation like that,” he added. “I am not aware of making any remark that could be taken as sexual harassment.”