Key Facts
• August 15: Mayor Maki Takubo inspected the library, a key election issue.
• Library maintenance reportedly neglected for 10 years, according to city staff.
• Mayor proposed a “Hot Spring Library” combining a library and hot spring facility.
• Funding for the project may involve private investments, not solely city funds.
• August 16: Mayor Takubo attended a special committee hearing on academic fraud.
• Allegations involve claims of graduating from Toyo University, later proven false.
• Mayor admitted learning of her unenrolled status on June 28 during a university visit.
• Committee members criticized her for evasive answers and lack of clarity.
• Graduation album, presented as evidence, was reviewed for over three minutes.
• Mayor maintained belief in its authenticity but failed to provide definitive answers.
Summary
Mayor Maki Takubo of Ito City inspected the library on August 15, addressing its role as a key election issue. She criticized the lack of maintenance over the past decade and proposed a “Hot Spring Library” concept, combining a library with a hot spring facility, potentially funded through private investments. However, her administration faces scrutiny over academic fraud allegations. On August 16, she appeared before a special committee, accompanied by legal counsel, to address claims of falsely stating she graduated from Toyo University. Takubo admitted discovering her unenrolled status on June 28 but maintained she believed in her graduation until then. The committee criticized her for evasive responses, particularly regarding the authenticity of her graduation album. The controversy continues to overshadow her policy initiatives.
