Recent reports have cast serious doubt on the leadership of Ibaraki Prefecture Governor Kazuhiko Oigawa (60), who has held office since his first election in August 2017. Allegations of power harassment and disheartening mental health statistics among staff have surfaced, raising pressing questions about the sustainability of his governance.
On March 12, 2025, the online version of Weekly Bunshun reported concerning claims against Oigawa, which allege he used abusive language, including the phrases "Baka" (meaning idiot) and "Die," directed at employees who did not align with his directives. Oigawa, when confronted with these allegations, denied the claims, asserting, "The report differed from the facts," during his press briefing at the prefectural office. This situation occurs amid speculation surrounding his campaign for reelection later this year.
Prior to the emergence of these allegations, Oigawa's administration was marked by notable milestones. Within just four months of taking office, he achieved 100% digitization of decision-making operations at the prefectural office. He also dramatically increased the number of integrated junior and senior high schools run by the prefecture. These actions contributed to Ibaraki's reputation as progressive, yet they seem to have masked underlying issues, most disturbingly reflected by the mental health crisis among employees.
During his time as governor, 13 prefectural employees have tragically committed suicide, and for the first time, those taking long-term sick leave due to mental illness have surpassed 100 per year. This sobering statistic highlights potential systemic problems within the prefectural office environment.
With Oigawa's management style now facing intense scrutiny, the situation took on greater urgency when Deputy Governor Hirofumi Iizuka's secretary died unexpectedly last October 2024. Reports noted the bereaved family had aired significant concerns about the work environment prior to the tragedy. Even after acknowledging these concerns, the prefecture concluded there had been no evidence of power harassment or severe overworking conditions. The statement made by the prefectural office suggested, "There were no power harassment or overwork issues," reflecting seemingly dismissive attitudes toward the well-being of employees.
This current climate within the governor's office raises serious ethical questions around leadership and accountability. Oigawa's approach and subsequent denials come across as detached from the harsh realities faced by many employees. Despite his public image as a forward-thinking leader, the adverse mental health reports paint a very different picture.
Commentators on the situation are noting how such incidents may significantly influence public perception of Oigawa as he heads toward another election. With his past successes now overshadowed by these alarming allegations, many are left wondering if the governor can effectively lead or if the community demands change. The testimonies of current and former employees will play a pivotal role as stakeholders watch closely.
Eventually, whether Oigawa can maintain his governorship rests not just on his legislative achievements, but on how effectively he addresses concerns about workplace culture moving forward. Engaging seriously with mental health issues and ensuring support for troubled employees may be his most significant test yet.
The community surrounding Ibaraki Prefectural Office is evidently anxious, and many will be evaluating if the leadership has truly learned from its past mistakes or if these incidents are merely symptoms of more significant issues within the organization's culture. Each step taken—or not taken—by Governor Oigawa will be closely assessed as the election date draws nearer, and whether these allegations impact the voting population's choices remains to be seen.