The city council of Tsurugashima, Saitama, which has 18 seats, approved a resolution on the 4th requesting councilmember Emi Fukushima, an independent, to refrain from expressing opinions using her council title on social media, such as opposing discrimination against foreigners. The resolution, which passed by a majority, isn’t legally binding but could limit the councilmember’s freedom of speech.
The resolution stated that her posts have led to increased inquiries to the city, affecting normal operations. Fukushima criticized the decision, calling it unfair. From May to the end of July, about 150 opinions, mostly critical, were submitted regarding her actions via the city’s website, social media, and phone. Additionally, there were threats against Fukushima and the city hall, leading the police to investigate. As a result, the council canceled an event for children scheduled for August.
The resolution claims not to restrict free speech but cites significant impacts on public safety and government operations. Council Chair Yoshihiro Uchino stated they don’t condone threats but wanted to express their stance, as Fukushima didn’t comply with oral requests to self-restrain since June.
Fukushima, who posted against foreigner hate on the platform X (formerly Twitter), indicated in an interview that remaining silent would benefit her aggressors and that this issue isn’t just personal. She does not intend to comply with the self-restraint request.
by MagazineKey4532