New Tokyo Games Chief Submits Resignation From Ldp
The new chief of the organizing committee of the Tokyo Olympic and Paralympic Games has tendered her resignation as a member of Japan's main ruling Liberal Democratic Party.
Hashimoto Seiko submitted notice of her departure on Friday.
Earlier, she said she would not resign as a lawmaker, or from the LDP.
Opposition party members criticized her, saying it could lead to use of the Olympics for political purposes.
After handing in her resignation, Hashimoto explained many people had given her advice and she decided to leave the party to work on the Tokyo Games from a fair and impartial position.
She said she wants to apologize for causing confusion, and she will do all she can to ensure the Games will be safe, secure and welcomed.
Hashimoto also said she will remain an Upper House lawmaker.
The LDP is expected to accept her departure from the party.
Hashimoto replaced former Tokyo Games chief Mori Yoshiro on Thursday. Mori resigned after making remarks that were seen as demeaning to women, unleashing an international backlash.