Understanding Public Outrage: Reflections on Recent Sexual Misconduct Cases Involving Public Servants

Understanding Public Outrage: Reflections on Recent Sexual Misconduct Cases Involving Public Servants

Question from a reader:
Kishiwada-kun, TKO’s Kinoshita-kun, Jumpoke’s Saito-kun, Matsumoto Hitoshi-kun, and SMAP’s Nakai-kun, what do you think about the recent issues of sexual misconduct? Are they feeling anger about it too?

Thoughts on Recent Issues of Sexual Misconduct

Everyone has been shocked by the recent news, right? Especially the incident involving a Tokyo Fire Department firefighter committing indecent acts against a female high school student. It’s truly unbelievable that someone in a public servant role could engage in such behavior. I believe Kishiwada-kun, TKO’s Kinoshita-kun, Jumpoke’s Saito-kun, Matsumoto Hitoshi-kun, and
SMAP’s Nakai-kun are also feeling anger about this news. I completely understand that sentiment. In fact, working part-time at a judicial scrivener’s office has deepened my awareness of how much impact such incidents can have. As a legal professional and as a human being, I find myself reflecting on these issues. The fact that the perpetrator is a public servant is a betrayal of the trust placed in that profession. I think disciplinary dismissal is an obvious measure, and the emotional scars for the victims are immeasurable.

Responsibility of Public Servants and Societal Expectations

Public servants bear a special responsibility to society. Given that they are entrusted by citizens and engage in their duties, it is natural for their actions to be scrutinized. When such incidents occur, they can negatively affect other public servants as well. That’s why I believe strict measures are necessary. Of course, individual cases may vary, but generally speaking, I feel that “public servants are expected to uphold a higher standard of ethics.” Recently, while discussing such issues with a friend, he remarked, “Just because there are laws doesn’t mean justice is guaranteed.” It was striking. Indeed, laws provide a framework, but what’s crucial is how sincerely individuals engage with those laws.

What Are Your Thoughts?

So, what do you all think about this issue? Are you feeling the same anger as Kishiwada-kun and the others, or do you have a different perspective? I would love to hear your thoughts in the comments. By contemplating these issues together, I hope we can contribute to making society a little better. I also want to continue discussing these topics and sharing with everyone. Please share your thoughts and experiences too!