Key Facts
• July 7, 2025: Mayor Maki Takubo announced resignation over academic fraud allegations.
• Takubo admitted not graduating from Toyo University, contrary to prior claims.
• Official records show Takubo was expelled on March 31, 1992.
• Graduation certificate authenticity to be investigated by Shizuoka District Prosecutor’s Office.
• Takubo plans to run in a re-election to seek public trust.
• Resignation to follow submission of evidence, including enrollment records and certificate.
• Takubo claims belief in certificate’s authenticity but awaits official investigation results.
• Legal counsel confirmed evidence will be submitted within 10–14 days.
• If convicted, Takubo will not run for re-election.
• Public and council criticism influenced Takubo’s decision to resign.
Summary
Maki Takubo, the mayor of Ito City, announced her resignation on July 7, 2025, following allegations of academic fraud. Takubo admitted she did not graduate from Toyo University, despite previously claiming so. Official records confirm her expulsion on March 31, 1992. The authenticity of her graduation certificate, a key point of contention, will be investigated by the Shizuoka District Prosecutor’s Office. Takubo plans to submit evidence, including enrollment records and the certificate, within two weeks. She expressed her intention to run in a re-election to regain public trust but stated she would not proceed if convicted. Public criticism and a council resolution urging her resignation played a significant role in her decision. Takubo apologized for the controversy and pledged to cooperate fully with the investigation.
