No Changes To Tokyo Games After Mori Resignation
The Japanese government is seeking to hold the Tokyo Olympic and Paralympic Games as planned despite the upcoming resignation of the head of the organizing committee.
A former chairman of Japan's professional soccer league, Kawabuchi Saburo, is expected to replace Mori Yoshiro, who decided to step down after his comments about women were widely criticized.
Some ruling party members have expressed regret about Mori's resignation, citing his wide international connections. Others are stressing the need for united efforts to ensure that the summer Games will be held smoothly.
Government officials say they will make efforts to regain confidence and build the momentum for the Games.
The preparations lost some steam after Mori made his gaffe. Hundreds of volunteers have quit the Games in protest.
The government hopes to quickly determine the number of spectators at each venue, taking into consideration the global and domestic trends of coronavirus infections.
It will also draw up plans for responding to any cases among athletes.
Opposition parties intend to criticize the government and the ruling bloc at the Diet session for not having urged Mori to step down. Opposition lawmakers say this delayed the resignation and damaged Japan's reputation.
The lawmakers will ask the government how it plans to regain trust, including measures to achieve gender equality.