Tokyo governor takes time off due to fatigue before Olympics
Tokyo’s metropolitan government says Gov. Yuriko Koike will take time off to recover from severe fatigue, one month before the Olympics begin
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.Tokyo s governor will take time off to recover from severe fatigue, the metropolitan government said Wednesday, one month before the Olympics begin.
As the host city's leader, Gov. Yuriko Koike has been deeply involved with preparations for the Olympics and Paralympics as well as leading the capital's coronavirus response.
She often worked weekends and late at night on coronavirus measures and holding meetings with senior officials, and would speak briefly to reporters who waited to speak to her at the entrance of the metropolitan government building.
At an online meeting related to COVID-19 on Tuesday, she apologized for her hoarse voice.
Japanese media including NHK public television reported Koike was hospitalized.
The Tokyo metropolitan government did not confirm the report but said Koike has severe fatigue requiring rest and will take time off from work through the end of the week.
Earlier this week, Olympic representatives decided to allow the public to attend the Games, though caps were set on spectators at Olympic venues.
Health experts have expressed deep concern the Games could cause the virus to surge in the Tokyo region.
Deputy Gov. Mitsuchika Tarao is taking over Koike’s official duties while she rests, officials said.