Third-party probe confirms workplace harassment by Yokohama mayor

A third-party investigation by three lawyers has confirmed workplace harassment by the mayor of Yokohama.

The report, submitted to the city on Thursday, found that Takeharu Yamanaka, 53, yelled at subordinates, called them “morons” and “human scum,” and prohibited them from entering his office. These actions were recognized as serious acts of power harassment.

“It is extremely serious that the mayor, who is in an overwhelmingly superior position, has routinely and continuously shown inappropriate behavior,” the report stated.

The problem came to light following allegations by the then head of the city’s human resources department in January that he had been subjected to coercive behavior by Yamanaka. The whistleblower also said that the mayor had insulted other city officials as well.

Speaking to reporters later on Thursday, Yamanaka expressed his intention to stay in office, saying, “I’ll fix the problem that I caused myself.”

“I deeply regret and apologize for my poor choice of words and the great inconvenience I caused,” said Yamanaka, a former university professor who was first elected mayor in 2021 and is currently serving his second term.

The third-party lawyers began investigating the allegations in March.

In the investigation report, the lawyers stated that Yamanaka was unaware that his actions were abusive and lacked awareness of human rights.

To restore public trust, the lawyers urged the city to establish an ordinance to prevent harassment by senior officials.