This piece examines Asahi Shimbun’s organizational reshuffle and editorial appointments, alongside controversial political columns that used provocative expressions in criticizing the Abe administration.
It questions the standards, tone, and future credibility of major Japanese newspapers.

2019-01-11
The column concluded with criticism of the Abe administration, stating, “I do not want to be told by those in power that ‘there is no other way,’” and “Silently clog the toilet. We are all alive.”
■ An article urging readers to “clog the toilet.”
Asahi Shimbun announced senior editorial appointments following an organizational reshuffle.
According to the announcement, Masato Ono, who had served as editorial chief, was reassigned as an editorial board member.
In his place, Kiyoki Nemoto, 55, from the political desk, was appointed as editorial chief with executive待遇 status.
Nemoto previously handled the “Tensei Jingo” column and the Sunday morning column “Seiji Dankan,” and was considered close to the Democratic Party during its time in power.
Attention also focused on the position of deputy editorial chief.
Previously, Junji Tatsuno from the social affairs desk and Kazuhiko Yamase from the economic desk held deputy positions, but Tatsuno was elevated in the new appointments.
Yamase was transferred to director of the journalist school and editorial assistant.
Some view this as a de facto demotion.
It is said that Tatsuno’s repeated criticism of the security legislation on a television news program contributed to his promotion.
Masayuki Takayama, in this magazine’s serialized column “Nihon Keisei,” pointed out issues with an article by a female Asahi journalist.
Junko Takahashi, deputy head of the political desk, titled her February 28 column “Silently Clog the Toilet.”
She argued metaphorically that if management refuses to provide toilet paper, one should use newspaper and clog the toilet in protest.
The piece ultimately turned into criticism of the Abe administration, stating that she rejects being told by rulers that “there is no other way.”
In a subsequent column on March 27 titled “Spring Has Come,” she addressed criticism and encouragement, responding to calls for “the death penalty.”
She wrote that relying on the state to carry out punishment simply because one is offended is too simplistic.
As writing from the No.2 figure in the political desk, it sparked controversy.
Such content raises questions about the future of Asahi Shimbun.
(Published in the May 2016 issue.)