Economy, Trade and Industry Minister Yuko Obuchi and Justice Minister Midori Matsushima quit on Oct. 20 amid separate political scandals. J.J. O'Donoghue asked around in Osaka, Kyoto and Hyogo Prefecture about who, in an ideal world, they would have liked to see get their jobs.
Tomiko Bonnah
Housewife (Japanese)
For trade minister, I'd pick Chiyo Uno. She was a unique character, and a writer and kimono designer. For justice minister, I would pick Kansai native (and former Osaka deputy mayor) Mitsuyo Ohira. She has a really interesting background.
Sabine Wolf
Editor, 32 (German)
(Late German Chancellor) Willy Brandt, because he was brave, a man of real integrity — in short, a statesman. He was also instrumental in Germany's reconciliation and building lasting good relationships with neighboring countries.
Tadamasa Ueda
Researcher, 32 (Japanese)
For Justice, Kunio Hatoyama, because he did the job well, and he's a man with profound views. For the trade post, a person who knows how to design a business creatively — maybe Shigeru Miyamoto, creator of Nintendo's "Mario" and "Zelda" series.
Ben Daggers
Magician, 31 (English)
Yoko Ono. The only way that she could be more disliked is if she became a politician. And how about Storm from "X-Men"? The ability to control the weather would be useful in Japan.
Kayo Ikeda
Artist, 40 (Japanese)
Liberal Democratic Party politician Tomomi Inada. She loves Japan very much and she understands Japanese culture and politics. Owing to her background as a lawyer, she can think logically and effectively.
Paul Lynch
Lecturer. 40 (Northern Irish)
TV personality Matsuko Deluxe. We need more female politicians who won't take nonsense from the men. And Papaya Suzuki, to bring some cool hair and funky moves to Japanese politics. Or Julius Caesar, as he's familiar with being stabbed in the back.
Interested in collecting vox pops in your local area? Email [email protected].
