In a shocking revelation, personal photographs from the late Hyogo Prefectural Bureau Chief’s official computer have surfaced, igniting a firestorm of controversy. The images, which were part of a file titled “Tomoko Photo Gallery,” were disclosed by Takashi Tachibana, a prominent figure in the political landscape, known for his role as the former deputy leader of the NHK from the People Party.
On November 29, Tachibana aired parts of the bureau chief’s computer contents on his YouTube channel, raising serious ethical questions about the mixing of personal and professional data. He pointed out that the presence of personal information on a public computer is a clear violation of privacy norms and public trust.
The late bureau chief, Watanabe, had reportedly used the official computer for personal purposes, including writing letters and maintaining a collection of photographs of various women, alongside other questionable activities. This has led to public outrage, with many citizens arguing that taxpayers deserve transparency regarding the information contained within a publicly funded device.
Critics have expressed disbelief that a public servant would engage in such behavior, suggesting that the discovery of these files raises concerns about the integrity of public office. The incident has also drawn attention to the circumstances surrounding Watanabe’s tragic demise, with speculation that he may have felt cornered by the implications of this data being made public.
Tachibana has vowed to continue releasing information if mainstream media and the Hyogo Prefectural Assembly remain silent on the matter. He insists that the public’s right to know outweighs any claims to privacy, especially given the serious nature of the allegations. As the story unfolds, it remains to be seen how local authorities and media will respond to this unfolding scandal, which has the potential to shake the foundations of public trust in Hyogo’s governance.