Key Facts
• July 29: Fourth special committee meeting held on Mayor Maki Takubo’s academic fraud.
• Takubo claimed to have graduated from Toyo University but was later found to have been expelled.
• A close acquaintance testified that Takubo admitted not graduating but attending post-graduation gatherings.
• City Council Chair Hiro Michinaka questioned Takubo’s credibility and hinted at a no-confidence motion.
• Takubo has expressed intent to resign but avoided confirming her resignation during a July 28 press conference.
• Vice Chair Takahiro Aoki supported the testimony, calling it credible and courageous.
• The council is prepared to act if Takubo refuses to step down by July 31.
Summary
Mayor Maki Takubo of Ito City faces mounting pressure over allegations of falsifying her academic credentials. Despite claiming to have graduated from Toyo University, it was revealed she had been expelled. A close acquaintance testified to hearing Takubo admit this, further fueling doubts about her integrity. City Council Chair Hiro Michinaka and Vice Chair Takahiro Aoki have expressed concerns over her credibility, with Michinaka suggesting a no-confidence motion if Takubo does not resign. While Takubo has indicated plans to step down, she has avoided explicitly confirming her resignation, leaving the council prepared to take decisive action by July 31.
