Two Japanese ministers resign

Japanese Trade Minister Yuko Obuchi (pictured) and Justice Minister Midori Matsushima resigned within hours of each other on Monday, amid claims over separate scandals. Both are members of Prime Minister Shinzo Abe's governing conservative Liberal Democratic Party.

The ex-ministers were two of five women appointed by Abe in a Cabinet reshuffle last month, with the key aim of boosting women's presence in politics and business in Japan. That agenda continues to be hindered, with two other female Cabinet members having also been criticized for suspected ties with racist groups.

Obuchi, who was tipped by some to be the future prime minister, resigned in the early hours of Monday, saying she needed to focus on an investigation into discrepancies in accounting for election funds. About 26.4 million yen (190,000 euros/$246,000) in funds relating to two political organizations was unaccounted for.

"I apologize for not being able to make any contributions as a member of the Abe Cabinet in achieving key policy goals, including the economic recovery and a society where women shine," the 40-year-old said.

Violation

Hours later, Matsushima resigned following a filed criminal complaint from the opposition Democratic Party, after she passed out hand-held paper fans or "uchiwa" to voters in her district. Some opposition lawmakers believe the 58-year-old's actions violated the Political Funds Control Law, which prohibits giving gifts over a particular value. She is also accused of using parliament-provided housing while keeping security guards at her private residence in downtown Tokyo.

"I deeply apologize to the public," Prime Minister Abe said following the resignations. He added that he felt responsible for appointing the women and would be selecting "suitable" replacements later on Monday.

The Cabinet resignations are the first for Abe since he took office in late 2012.

ksb/mkg (Reuters, AP)