Nintendo president Satoru Iwata unable to attend AGM
He's recovering from major surgery.
Nintendo's president Satoru Iwata will not attend the company's annual general meeting of shareholders this month as he is recovering from major surgery.
The 54-year-old is recuperating after an operation to remove a growth found in his bile duct.
Iwata made the announcement in an open letter published on Nintendo's site this morning.
"Today, there is one thing that I would like to share with you," Iwata wrote. "Recently, as the result of one of my routine physical examinations, an issue was detected. Following a more detailed examination, a growth was found in my bile duct.
"In general, it is said that a bile duct growth can be difficult-to-treat, partly because of the difficulty of detecting it early. In my case, luckily, it was detected very early and I had no symptoms.
"I was counseled that removal at an early stage would be the desirable medical option. Therefore I had surgery last week, and I came through it well, as predicted.
"I have already resumed my business by email and by other means, but it is anticipated that a little more time is needed for me to return to my regular work schedule.
"As the president of the company, I regret that I cannot attend the meeting. However, I understand that I have to prioritise my medical treatment and to recover as soon as possible so that I will again be able to do my best to help the company to grow. I hope that you understand."
The news follows Nintendo's earlier confirmation that Iwata would not attend E3 this year due to health reasons - the first time he has missed the show in several years.
Iwata did appear in a segment of Nintendo's pre-recorded E3 2014 broadcast, although it is not clear at what time this was filmed.
Eurogamer wishes him a speedy recovery.