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Media Bias and the Case of Takaichi: What Really Happened?

In recent days, social media in Japan has been buzzing with allegations that some members of the mainstream media discussed how to make Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi look bad in the news. According to online rumors, these individuals were caught in a private chat talking about ways to lower her approval rating and even choosing only “ugly” photos of her to use in broadcasts.

 

The story quickly spread online, sparking outrage among many who saw it as proof of media bias against conservative politicians. However, when looking into official reports, the full picture appears to be more nuanced.

 

According to an article from The Mainichi (October 9, 2025), a photographer from a Japanese news agency was formally reprimanded for making inappropriate remarks about Takaichi that went viral online. The report confirms that disciplinary action was taken, but it does not indicate any coordinated campaign among news organizations or broadcasters to damage Takaichi’s public image.

 

While the verified facts are limited to one photographer’s misconduct, the incident has reignited long-standing concerns about bias within Japan’s mainstream media. Critics argue that the tone of coverage and image selection often seem to favor progressive or liberal perspectives, while conservatives face harsher treatment. Supporters of Takaichi, in particular, see this as part of a broader pattern of unfair media representation.

 

Ultimately, regardless of political views, journalism should strive to remain fair, balanced, and transparent. When even a single case of misconduct occurs, it erodes public trust — something the media can ill afford in today’s polarized world.