Yomiuri Shimbun Chief Tsuneo Watanabe Dies at 98

Tsuneo Watanabe, the influential representative director and editor-in-chief of Yomiuri Shimbun Holdings, passed away at the age of 98 due to pneumonia on December 19. His career spanned over six decades, during which he held key positions in the newspaper, including Washington bureau chief and president, shaping its editorial direction and political engagement. Watanabe was known for his close relationships with prominent politicians, notably former Prime Minister Yasuhiro Nakasone, and for his controversial advocacy for constitutional revision. In addition to his media influence, he was the owner and later chief adviser of the Yomiuri Giants baseball team, cementing his role in Japan's sports arena. A private funeral will be held for him, attended only by family members.