MW: Japan’s economy minister quits over funds scandal
TOKYO — Japanese Economy Minister Akira Amari, a close ally of Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, said Thursday he would resign to take responsibility for a political-funds scandal.
A weekly magazine called Shukan Bunshun reported last week about political funds allegedly received by Amari and his aides from a company involved in a land dispute.
Amari on Thursday acknowledged personally receiving a total of ÂĄ1 million ($8,400) on two occasions from a person at the company but said the money was handled properly.