Key Facts
• July 29: Fourth session of the investigative committee held in Ito City.
• Allegations: Mayor Maki Takubo falsely claimed graduation from Toyo University.
• Testimony: A citizen stated Takubo admitted to not graduating before her election.
• July 2: Takubo confirmed her status as “withdrawn” from the university.
• City publications falsely listed her as a Toyo University graduate.
• Takubo claimed she mistakenly believed she had graduated until June 28.
• Witness recalled Takubo mentioning her non-graduation twice between 2017-2018.
• Committee demanded submission of graduation records; refusal may lead to legal action.
• City council members expressed distrust and called for Takubo’s resignation.
• Takubo’s decision on resignation expected during the July 31 press conference.
Summary
Mayor Maki Takubo of Ito City is under scrutiny for alleged academic fraud, with claims she falsely stated graduating from Toyo University. During the fourth session of the investigative committee on July 29, a witness testified that Takubo admitted to not graduating before her election. Takubo later confirmed her “withdrawn” status but claimed she mistakenly believed she had graduated until June 28. The committee has demanded her graduation records, warning of potential legal action for non-compliance. City council members have expressed distrust, urging her resignation. Takubo’s decision on her political future is anticipated at a July 31 press conference.
