Key Facts
• July 2, 2025: Mayor Maki Takubo admits to academic fraud allegations.
• Takubo claimed to have graduated from Toyo University Law School.
• Toyo University confirmed Takubo was expelled, not a graduate.
• Expulsion differs from voluntary withdrawal; it is initiated by the institution.
• Expelled students may list “expelled” or “withdrawn” on resumes, with “withdrawn” being common.
• Japan’s Public Offices Election Act Article 235 penalizes false claims with up to 2 years’ imprisonment or a ¥300,000 fine.
• Conviction under this law nullifies election results.
Summary
Maki Takubo, the mayor of Ito City, Shizuoka Prefecture, admitted on July 2, 2025, to allegations of academic fraud. Takubo had previously claimed to have graduated from Toyo University Law School, but the university confirmed that she had been expelled. Expulsion, unlike voluntary withdrawal, is a decision made by the institution to remove a student. While resumes can list “expelled” or “withdrawn,” the latter is more commonly used. Under Japan’s Public Offices Election Act, candidates who falsify their academic or professional credentials face penalties of up to two years in prison or a fine of ¥300,000. A conviction would also invalidate their election. Takubo’s case highlights the legal and ethical implications of misrepresenting academic qualifications.
