How did the Japanese mayor respond to the harassment allegations?

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Japanese Mayor Resigned Amidst 99 Sexual Harassment Allegations and Denials

Hideo Kojima, the 74-year-old mayor of a town in central Gifu region, announced his resignation following an official investigation that detailed 99 allegations of sexual harassment. While some allegations involved incidents like touching colleagues' breasts and buttocks, Kojima denied certain claims, attributing misinterpreted gestures such as hugging and patting women employees to expressions of gratitude. He also contended that the investigative report lacked neutrality and requested a more thorough examination.
Investigation Detailed Multiple Incidents of Misconduct

An independent committee's investigation accused Mayor Kojima of numerous inappropriate actions. These included forcing female employees to touch his hands, described as "fair and smooth," and displaying his legs by rolling up his trousers for subordinates to touch. The report also documented instances where some workers resorted to using disinfectant spray after being touched, alongside inappropriate remarks and demands, such as an employee being asked to bend over.
Mayor Claimed Gestures Were Misunderstood

Kojima contested several aspects of the investigation, particularly those involving physical contact with female staff. He explained that actions like hugging women employees, which were witnessed by others, were not intended as harassment but rather as misinterpretations of his gestures. Similarly, he stated that patting women workers on their heads was a way to express gratitude, not an act of misconduct.
Survey Indicated Widespread Discomfort Among Staff

To gauge the impact of the mayor's behaviour, the investigating committee conducted a survey among 193 workers within Kojima's municipality. Out of 161 respondents, a significant portion reported feeling uncomfortable due to the mayor's actions, with approximately 53 percent of men and 58 percent of women indicating such feelings. This survey data underscored a broader issue of discomfort stemming from the mayor's conduct.

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How did the Japanese mayor respond to the harassment allegations?

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