【Shigeo’s Review】
The Weekly Bunshun report on Mikako Mizuno, a member of the House of Councillors from the Constitutional Democratic Party, has delivered a significant shock to the party just before the upcoming House of Councillors election.
Mizuno, known by the catchphrase “Space Mom,” had a seemingly gentle and clean image, but the reality is quite different. According to the report, multiple secretaries in her office have resigned, with the number reaching as high as 11. Reasons for their resignations include repeated instances of verbal abuse such as “You don’t have to come in tomorrow” and “Get your act together.” Several former secretaries have reported experiencing neurosis and adaptation disorders.
Such conditions are far removed from the responsibilities and leadership expected of a politician, indicating a toxic environment within her office. Furthermore, even supporters and the chair of her support group are distancing themselves, suggesting that Mizuno’s behavior and attitude are negatively affecting her support base.
On social media, she has been mocked as “the second Mayuko Toyota,” making it impossible to avoid a loss of credibility as a politician.
Moreover, the problem isn’t limited to power harassment towards secretaries. Amid questions of the party’s neutrality, Mizuno has used tags like “JAXA” and “Hayabusa” on social media, faced formal sanctions within the party, and has been accused of inviting guests to political fundraising parties without the party leader’s consent.
These actions contradict the ethical standards and discipline expected of politicians and have drawn strong criticism from both inside and outside the party.
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Mizuno herself has explained that her busy schedule led to shortcomings in communication, stating that she is securing personnel like a venture company. However, testimonies from related individuals and former secretaries reveal a significant disconnect from the actual situation. Voices from the field suggest that the office cannot function without such a toxic environment, indicating a substantial gap between Mizuno’s perceptions and the reality.
This report represents a serious blow to the Constitutional Democratic Party. Not only will it take time to regain public trust, but the party must also undergo reforms in its internal culture and human resource management. The concept of “valuing working people” should not become mere window dressing, and methods that treat secretaries as disposable should not be tolerated.
Additionally, the emergence of such scandals right before the House of Councillors election could negatively impact not just the party’s image but the election campaign as well. Mizuno has indicated that she will not run for election from the Kanagawa district, a decision likely connected to the ongoing issues.
Overall, the concerns surrounding Mizuno are not merely a personal scandal but reveal a lack of responsibility as a politician and weaknesses in the party’s management system. It will be crucial to see how the Constitutional Democratic Party addresses this issue and implements preventive measures. To remain a trusted political party, it must genuinely reflect on this situation and respond with transparency and integrity.
