9. Selection of honorable citizens

For the title of Tokyo Honorable Citizen, we have selected four candidates this year, physicist Mr. Akito Arima, alpine skier Mr. Chiharu Igaya, artist Ms. Yayoi Kusama, and actress and television personality Ms. Tetsuko Kuroyanagi.

In addition to his outstanding achievements in physics research, Mr. Akito Arima has made accomplishments in a variety of fields, including as a poet, President of Tokyo University, and education minister.

Mr. Chiharu Igaya is Japan’s first Winter Olympic medalist, and has contributed to the promotion of sports for many years as an International Olympic Committee (IOC) member.

As an avant-garde artist, Ms. Yayoi Kusama has long been active at the forefront of the art world, unveiling a constant stream of creative and original works in motifs such as polka dots and mesh-like patterns.

Tetsuko Kuroyanagi has been active on the frontlines of television from its pioneering days. She is also passionately involved in activities contributing to society, including serving as a UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador.

All four candidates are more than worthy of the respect and admiration of Tokyo citizens. With the approval of the Tokyo Metropolitan Assembly, we wish to award them the title of Honorable Citizen next month. The cooperation of the Assembly would be most appreciated.