Key Facts
• July 20, 2025: Masako Mori wins re-election in Fukushima constituency.
• July 24, 2025: ‘Thank You for Election’ poster spotted at her office in Koriyama City.
• The poster read: ‘Thank you for your strong support. Masako Mori.’
• Election law prohibits post-election greetings to prevent vote-buying.
• Mori’s office removed the poster after receiving complaints.
• The office stated the poster was brought by a supporter without Mori’s knowledge.
• Acceptable forms of gratitude include handwritten letters or website announcements.
• Fukushima Election Commission stated such posters are not allowed under the law.
• Masako Mori, aged 60, first elected in 2007, secured her fourth term in 2025.
• She has previously served as Minister of Justice.
Summary
Masako Mori, a Liberal Democratic Party member and former Justice Minister, faced scrutiny after a ‘Thank You for Election’ poster was displayed at her campaign office in Koriyama City following her re-election in the Fukushima constituency. The poster, which expressed gratitude to supporters, was deemed potentially in violation of Japan’s Public Offices Election Act, which prohibits post-election greetings to prevent vote-buying. Mori’s office promptly removed the poster, explaining it was brought by a supporter without her knowledge. The Fukushima Election Commission confirmed such displays are not permitted under the law. Mori, who first entered politics in 2007, secured her fourth term in the 2025 election.
