Kazuhiro Sugita, Japan’s longest-serving deputy chief cabinet secretary, has died at the age of 84, officials confirmed on Monday.
Sugita held the influential bureaucratic post for eight years and nine months.
His tenure spanned multiple administrations during a politically significant period in Japan.
Sugita assumed the role at the launch of former prime minister Shinzo Abe’s second administration in December 2012.
He remained in office through the end of the government led by Abe’s immediate successor, Yoshihide Suga.
Sugita stepped down from the position in October 2021 following the transition of leadership.
During his tenure, he was regarded as a central figure in coordinating government policy and crisis response.
Sugita was known for his behind-the-scenes influence within the Japanese bureaucracy.
He played a key role in maintaining administrative continuity during periods of political change.
Born in Saitama Prefecture, Sugita built his career through Japan’s elite civil service ranks.
He graduated from the University of Tokyo’s Faculty of Law, a traditional pipeline for senior officials.
Sugita joined the National Police Agency in 1966 shortly after completing his studies.
He rose steadily through the organisation during decades of public service.
Sugita later served as head of the National Police Agency’s Security Bureau.
In that role, he was involved in matters related to national security and public safety.
He also became Japan’s first cabinet intelligence director.
The position placed him at the centre of intelligence coordination across government agencies.
Sugita later took on the role of deputy chief cabinet secretary for crisis management.
His responsibilities included overseeing responses to natural disasters and security incidents.
Colleagues described him as methodical and deeply knowledgeable about state operations.
Sugita’s long service reflected strong trust from successive political leaders.
His experience was considered vital during times of diplomatic and domestic tension.
News of his death has prompted tributes from current and former officials.
Many praised his dedication to public service and institutional stability.
Sugita is remembered as one of the most enduring figures in Japan’s modern bureaucracy.
His passing marks the end of a notable chapter in Japan’s administrative history.