Japanese Prime Minister Kishida Fumio says he is considering replacing one of his secretaries for making controversial remarks. Arai Masayoshi said on Friday that he despises same-sex couples.

Kishida said on Saturday, " His remarks are totally incompatible with the government's policy. They're outrageous. I think he has no choice but to think about whether to resign."

Kisihda added that his administration is aiming to realize a diverse society.

Arai has been one of Kishida's secretaries since October 2021.

Arai told reporters on Friday that all of Kishida's secretaries are negative about same-sex marriage.

He also said he would not want a same-sex couple living next door to him. He also suggested some people may leave Japan if the government legalizes same-sex marriage. But at the same time Arai said he respects the human rights and values of same-sex couples.

Later in the day, he told reporters he wanted to withdraw the remarks if they caused misunderstanding. Arai also revealed he had not asked his colleagues for their opinions on the issue.

Arai's controversial remarks come after Kishida said in the Diet that lawmakers should carefully consider whether to legally recognize same-sex marriage.