Japan’s Minister for Economic Revitalisation Daishiro Yamagiwa resigned from his post on Monday over allegations of his links with a church group, also called a cult.
The church, founded in South Korea in the 1950s came under the spotlight following the July 8 assassination of former Prime Minister Shinzo Abe.
Speaking to reporters, Yamagiwa said he had done nothing illegal and would remain a lawmaker.
“It was pointed out that my explanation was delayed. As a result, I caused inconvenience to the government,” Yamagiwa said.
However, he regrets attending many church gatherings thus giving recognization to the organization.
Japan’s Finance Minister Shunichi Suzuki expressed shock over the resignation.
