Key Facts
• By-election triggered by resignation of former councilor Noriko Watanabe after bribery conviction.
• Koji Mizuguchi, 50, president of Koyo Town Chamber of Commerce, declared candidacy.
• Mizuguchi previously ran unsuccessfully in the prefectural election two years ago.
• Election scheduled for November 9, 2025, in Hiroshima City Asa Kita Ward.
• Mizuguchi aims to restore political trust and address local issues.
Summary
Koji Mizuguchi, a 50-year-old local business leader and president of the Koyo Town Chamber of Commerce, has announced his candidacy for the Hiroshima City Asa Kita Ward by-election. This election was prompted by the resignation of former councilor Noriko Watanabe, who was convicted in a large-scale bribery case related to the 2019 House of Councillors election. Mizuguchi, who previously ran unsuccessfully in the prefectural election two years ago, is running as an independent. He has pledged to restore trust in politics and address regional challenges. The election is set to take place on November 9, 2025.
