The selection of Seiko Hashimoto as president of the Tokyo Organizing Committee on Thursday brings one of Japan’s most well-known former Olympians to the top post. The outgoing minister for the Tokyo Games participated in seven Olympics in two different sports, is a strong advocate of holding the games and has administrative experience in the sporting and political worlds.
But Hashimoto, who takes over from former President Yoshiro Mori, who was forced to step down last week following a domestic and international furor over his sexist remarks, appears to have only reluctantly accepted the post.
In addition, she could face questions about her relationship with Mori — Hashimoto is a member of the Liberal Democratic Party faction that Mori once led, and he has provided Hashimoto with various forms of political assistance over the years.