In a recent development, Governor Takashi Kimura of Kumamoto finds himself under scrutiny for his involvement in what has been dubbed the “flower scandal.”
Allegations have surfaced against Governor Kimura regarding the distribution of floral arrangements, specifically large orchid displays, to acquaintances and public facilities including hospitals and welfare offices. These orchids were initially bestowed upon him in celebration of his election victory last March.
While it is permissible for the governor to receive such floral gifts, the Public Offices Election Act explicitly prohibits politicians from bestowing gifts of any nature upon their constituents, deeming it an illicit form of donation.
Governor Kimura has sought to defend his actions by asserting that he did not “gift” the orchids but merely “placed” them in these locations for safekeeping purposes.
According to the governor’s account, upon the conclusion of the election, the need arose to dismantle his campaign headquarters. Faced with the predicament of disposing of the surplus flowers, Governor Kimura and his spouse opted to temporarily distribute them in various locations until a permanent solution could be arranged. Although Governor Kimura expressed a tentative plan to relocate the orchids to the governor’s residence, no definitive timeline was established for their retrieval.
Complicating matters further, it was reported that one of the recipient hospitals prominently displayed the orchids with a sign acknowledging receipt from Governor Kimura. The wording on the sign, utilizing the Japanese term “itadaita,” conveys a level of humble appreciation typically reserved for esteemed gifts, casting doubt on the perception of merely safeguarding the plants temporarily.
As the controversy unfolds, questions linger regarding the appropriateness of the governor’s actions and the implications of his perceived violation of electoral regulations.