On January 21, 2025, Kiyohito Saito, the president of Bunka Housou, addressed reporters at the company's regular press conference held in Tokyo. He revealed his decision to request the holding of an extraordinary board meeting at Fuji Media Holdings (FMHD) following reports of talent Masahiro Nakai's (52) trouble with women, allegedly involving employees at Fuji Television. Saito's media organization holds about 3.33% of FMHD's shares, making it one of the major stakeholders.
During the conference, Saito emphasized the responsibility of external directors to monitor corporate governance effectively. “I have been closely watching the information disseminated from Fuji Television, and following last week's press conference, I sensed there are still many areas lacking clarity due to the reports circulating,” he stated. He insisted on the urgent need for governance to be established properly and confirmed he had sent requests for the extraordinary meeting via email, co-signed by five other external directors. “I want clear answers before the regularly scheduled board meeting at the end of the month, as we await their response,” Saito remarked.
Both Saito and FMHD's CEO Koichi Minato (72) recognized the seriousness of the allegations surrounding Nakai's eating arrangements with the implicated woman, which prompted this public outcry. Minato previously conducted their own press conference on January 17. While he delivered prepared remarks apologizing and detailing the company's actions, the question-and-answer session turned tense, as Minato repeatedly declined to answer due to the pending investigation being led by external legal counsel.
Saito noted the lack of direct responses from Fuji management, stating, “While the company has acknowledged causing inconvenience, they haven't provided any substantial explanations.” He also criticized the format of Minato's press conference, finding it insufficiently open and transparent. “There were too many instances where they refrained from answering questions adequately. If they held the meeting under such conditions, what was the point of the press conference?” He acknowledged concerns among sponsors, implying their reactions are, to some extent, justified.
He stated he was still seeking clarity about the situation, emphasizing the importance of prompt responses from FMHD, particularly concerning their handling of the issue, which is already impacting sponsor relationships.
Addressing the need for transparent governance, Saito said, “Our role as external directors is to shine light on governance issues and hold the management accountable.” He concluded by asserting the need for FMHD to engage the public proactively and address the investigations swiftly, as remaining silent will only lead to greater disquiet.
Saito underscored the ethical duty of media organizations to engage self-regulation actively. “It’s imperative for us as media professionals to act decisively before we are called to account by the public.” He reiterated his call for urgent investigations leading to public disclosure of findings, indicating his commitment to supporting those affected, respecting their rights and addressing concerns raised by employees.
With pressures building from both shareholders and the public, the situation at Fuji Television presents a significant challenge for the company. Stakeholders await the results of these immediate inquiries and anticipate substantial revisions to their governance policies, believing it is the linchpin for regaining trust.