Executive summary: Yokohama Mayor Takeharu Yamanaka has publicly admitted to verbally abusing his subordinates, including referring to them as “human scum,” following accusations of power harassment by a senior city official. The mayor apologized and pledged to seek professional help to improve his behavior.
The allegations were brought forward by Atsushi Kubota, the head of Yokohama’s human resources department, who revealed the mayor’s conduct in a Shukan Bunshun magazine article on January 11 and at a press conference on January 16. Kubota described multiple instances of harassment, such as Yamanaka demanding he commit ritual suicide if the city failed to secure the Tokyo International Conference on African Development (TICAD), a key diplomatic event.
In another incident, the mayor allegedly pointed his finger like a gun at Kubota while warning, “If you betray me, you’ll face this,” creating a climate of fear. Yamanaka also derogatorily labeled other staff and a city assembly member as “fat,” a “useless sack of dust,” and an “ostrich” in private conversations, undermining workplace morale and respect.
Facing mounting scrutiny, Yamanaka addressed reporters on January 16, acknowledging his use of harsh language and expressing deep reflection on his actions. He stated, “I want to apologize for making him suffer,” referring to Kubota, and announced his intention to receive professional counseling to curb such behavior. However, he denied the gun gesture and clarified that the suicide remark was meant to convey his resolve, not an actual threat.
Yamanaka, a 53-year-old former medical professor at Yokohama City University, was first elected mayor in 2021 and reelected in August 2025. His academic background contrasts sharply with the current scandal, raising questions about leadership styles in Japanese public administration. The case has ignited discussions on power harassment, a pervasive issue in Japan’s corporate and governmental sectors.
Kubota’s response emphasized the need for dignity in the workplace, saying, “Workers are not tools, and city assembly members are not enemies.” This statement resonates with broader efforts in Japan to combat workplace bullying and promote ethical management practices, following increased awareness from recent high-profile harassment cases.
The timing of the accusations, just months after Yamanaka’s reelection, suggests internal tensions within the city government. Media outlets like Kyodo News and Mainichi have provided extensive coverage, highlighting the event’s significance as a test of accountability for public officials in Japan.
Looking ahead, Yamanaka’s commitment to change will be critical in restoring public trust. The incident may prompt reviews of harassment policies in Yokohama and other municipalities, potentially leading to stricter regulations and support systems for employees. As the story develops, it serves as a reminder of the ongoing challenges in fostering respectful and transparent governance.
