Lawyer sorry for embarrassing Ghosn by planning workman disguise

TOKYO, Mar 8, 2019, Kyodo News. A lawyer for former Nissan Motor Co. Chairman Carlos Ghosn on Friday apologized for coming up with the failed workman disguise for him that made international headlines when Ghosn was released on bail two days ago, saying he had embarrassed his client, reported the Kyodo.

“I have tarnished Mr. Ghosn’s reputation, and I am sorry for it,” lawyer Takashi Takano said on his blog. He was present when the 64-year-old left the Tokyo Detention House in a workman’s outfit with a reflective vest and a face mask.

Takano said he came up with the idea as he did not want the media to know where Ghosn was going to stay after his release on bail Wednesday, thinking Ghosn’s everyday life and health would be impacted.

The lawyer admitted his plan had ended in failure since the media recognized Ghosn despite his disguise, but said his client managed to be reunited with his family at his residence.

Ghosn, who was arrested on Nov. 19 over alleged financial misconduct, was detained for 108 days before being released on 1 billion yen ($9 million) bail. He has denied the allegations against him.