According to a report by Japan’s Sankei Shimbun on August 15, photos of Japanese Prime Minister Ishiba Shigeru’s densely-written notes on the back of his hand during a speech have recently circulated online in Japan, sparking public discussion. Some Japanese netizens commented that “using cheat sheets on the back of one’s hand looks embarrassing,” while others argued that referring to notes during a speech is acceptable.
Reports indicate that photos and videos circulating online depict Taro Aso’s July 7th street campaign speech in Kagoshima Prefecture, aimed at garnering support for the Liberal Democratic Party’s Senate election candidates. The content of Aso’s apparent “cheat sheet” seems to consist of keywords for his speech. In the video, Aso is seen occasionally glancing at his hand, seemingly consulting the “cheat sheet.” Furthermore, some Japanese netizens have unearthed similar images from past events, claiming this is not the first time Aso has used a hand-written cheat sheet.
On July 7, Ishiba Shigeru delivered a street speech in Kagoshima Prefecture. The accompanying image was reported by Japanese media.
Ishiba’s actions have sparked controversy among Japanese netizens. Some commented that “using cheat sheets on one’s hand looks shameful.” Others, however, argued that referring to notes during a speech is acceptable, with some suggesting that if notes are necessary, it would be better to use paper or a tablet.
The Sankei Shimbun reported that during the senatorial election campaign, Ishiba Shigeru delivered numerous speeches throughout Japan. His speeches received high praise from some local audiences; some listeners commented that Ishiba’s speeches “demonstrated his thorough preparation.” Others said that Ishiba’s speeches gave the impression that he was “speaking his own words rather than simply reading from a script.”