Key Facts
• July 31, 2025: Mayor Maki Takubo held a press conference, retracting resignation plans.
• Takubo, aged 55, faced allegations of falsifying academic credentials from Toyo University.
• She claimed to have graduated but was actually expelled from the university.
• Ito City Council established a special investigative committee (Hyakujou Committee).
• July 29, 2025: A witness testified that Takubo admitted to not graduating.
• Takubo refused to submit her “diploma” to the committee, citing legal concerns.
• Her lawyer stated the document would not be handed over to authorities.
• Takubo apologized for the confusion but vowed to fulfill her campaign promises.
• The council is cautious about a no-confidence vote, awaiting the committee’s findings.
• Takubo’s refusal to cooperate has caused ongoing political turmoil in Ito City.
Summary
Maki Takubo, the mayor of Ito City, Japan, is embroiled in an academic fraud scandal. Allegations surfaced that she falsely claimed to have graduated from Toyo University, though records show she was expelled. Despite public and council pressure, Takubo has refused to submit her “diploma” to investigators, citing legal protections. Her lawyer confirmed plans to reject any police requests for the document. Takubo apologized for the controversy but announced her intention to remain in office and fulfill her campaign promises, including halting a library construction project and a solar power initiative. The city council is proceeding cautiously, prioritizing the investigative committee’s findings before considering a no-confidence vote. The situation has led to significant political instability in Ito City.
