Tokyo (AFP)

The Olympic torch relay should avoid the metropolis of Osaka (western Japan) due to a further increase in Covid-19 infections, the governor of the department of the same name said Thursday.

"I personally believe that the torch relay in Osaka city should be canceled," said Hirofumi Yoshimura, stressing that "requests to avoid non-essential and non-emergency outings should be strictly observed during the period of stricter measures ".

Mr. Yoshimura made the statements as the Japanese government prepares to impose new measures to combat Covid-19 in parts of Osaka and two other departments.

According to local media, Osaka Mayor Ichiro Matsui also wants the Olympic Torch Relay to avoid the city.

"It is very unfortunate, but the torch relay must be canceled," he said, according to the Nikkei newspaper.

The governor of the department called for the opening of discussions with the city of Osaka and those responsible for the Olympic Games which are to be held from July 23 to August 8 in the capital after a year of delay due to the pandemic.

The Olympic torch relay kicked off on March 25 in Fukushima (northeastern Japan), with organizers hoping it will help build enthusiasm for these Games affected by the global health crisis.

The flame is scheduled to pass through Osaka County on April 13 and 14, starting with Sakai City and ending with Osaka City.

Tokyo-2020 organizers did not immediately comment on the news about the Olympic torch relay in Osaka.

The governor of another department also hinted that he could ask that the baton not pass there if the measures to fight the virus are not strengthened.

The rules already require spectators along the relay route to wear masks and avoid cheering the torchbearers.

Organizers said stages could be canceled if crowds are too large.

Coronavirus infections have increased in Osaka and Hyogo (west) and Miyagi (northeast) departments.

The government is expected to officially announce new restrictions for these areas during the day, which will allow local authorities to ask some businesses to close earlier or face fines.

© 2021 AFP