Japan’s cabinet ministers made headlines after it was revealed that their group photo was edited before being posted online by Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba’s office. The changes, which involved minor edits like tucking in the white shirts of Mr. Ishiba and defence minister Gen Nakatani, caused a stir on social media. Critics pointed out the seemingly sloppy editing and mocked the government’s attempt to manipulate the photo.
Cabinet Secretary Yoshimasa Hayashi confirmed the edits and defended them as common practice for official photos meant to be lasting mementos. The controversy comes as Mr. Ishiba faces criticism for gender inequality in his newly appointed cabinet, with only two women in minor positions out of the 19-member team.
In a similar incident earlier this year, a photo of Kate Middleton and her children also sparked controversy due to editing errors. The picture was pulled after the mistakes were noticed, and the Princess of Wales issued an apology for any confusion the altered image caused.
These incidents underscore the scrutiny public figures face in the digital age, where even seemingly innocuous photos can become the subject of intense debate and criticism.
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