Key Facts
• Tokyo Metropolitan Assembly election began on June 13, voting on June 22.
• Six candidates linked to LDP slush fund scandal are running as ‘unofficial.’
• Masahiko Miyake, representing island districts, received the largest amount: ¥3.32 million.
• Miyake apologized for the scandal during his first campaign speech in Izu Oshima.
• Around 500 supporters attended his speech, according to his support group.
• Miyake’s speech lasted 8 minutes, with only 1 minute addressing the scandal.
• He did not explain the slush fund’s origins or usage.
• Focused on renewable energy and infrastructure development for island areas.
• Local leaders, including Oshima Mayor Choichi Sakagami, showed support.
• A 74-year-old supporter emphasized Miyake’s experience in addressing island issues.
• Competing candidates include Sho Ito (Democratic Party for the People) and Mitsutaka Okumura (local party ‘Path of Renewal’).
Summary
The Tokyo Metropolitan Assembly election has drawn attention to six ‘unofficial’ candidates linked to the LDP slush fund scandal. Among them, Masahiko Miyake, representing island districts, received ¥3.32 million, the highest amount. During his first campaign speech in Izu Oshima, Miyake apologized for the scandal but only briefly addressed it, dedicating most of his speech to renewable energy and infrastructure plans. Approximately 500 supporters attended, with local leaders backing him. While some supporters stressed the need for his experience in tackling island-specific challenges, Miyake faces competition from Sho Ito and Mitsutaka Okumura. The election will conclude with voting on June 22.
