The Fukui prefectural government released a report on Wednesday acknowledging that its former governor, who resigned last month, sexually harassed four female prefectural workers. The report suggests that some of his actions could qualify as sexual assault under the law.
On January 7, 2026, the Fukui Prefectural Government published a report compiled by three appointed lawyers. It details how former Governor Tatsuji Sugimoto engaged in sexual harassment against four female prefectural workers starting from 2004, when he became the prefecture's general affairs manager. The harassment included three instances of physical contact, one of which involved putting his hand up a victim's skirt and touching her thigh and buttocks.
The report states, “There is a possibility that Sugimoto was groping, which could constitute sexual assault under the Penal Code.” Sugimoto also sent persistent messages to the women, causing them to fear checking their phones.
Sugimoto resigned last month. This case highlights vulnerabilities in local government oversight and underscores the need for stronger measures against workplace harassment. While the report draws from official investigations, no response from Sugimoto has been made public yet.