Parliamentary Board Criticizes Defense Minister for Mishandling Security Secrets
A recent scandal at the Maritime Self-Defense Force (MSDF) has prompted a parliamentary board to call for Defense Minister Minoru Kihara to take corrective action in the management of sensitive information. The Board of Oversight and Review of Specially Designated Secrets, led by former Defense Minister Takeshi Iwaya, has expressed concerns over the improper handling of classified information, stating that it has led to a loss of trust in Japan’s information management system.
The scandal involved the assignment of personnel without proper security clearance to positions with access to confidential information at the Defense Ministry and the SDF, constituting a breach of security protocols. The board’s decision to urge Minister Kihara to implement reforms highlights the gravity of the situation and the need for enhanced security measures to prevent future leaks of secrets.