Key Facts
• Yatsushiro mayoral election announced due to term expiration (August 24, 2025).
• Two candidates filed: Hiroo Nakamura (66, incumbent) and Taisuke Ono (51, newcomer).
• Nakamura endorsed by Liberal Democratic Party and Komeito; both candidates are independent.
• Key issues: addressing economic disparity between northern and southern Kumamoto.
• Focus on economic revitalization of Yatsushiro, a key driver in southern Kumamoto.
• Recovery from record-breaking heavy rains this month is a major election topic.
• Voter count as of August 23: 98,657.
• Election day set for August 31, 2025 (Sunday).
Summary
The Yatsushiro mayoral election has been announced, with two candidates-incumbent Hiroo Nakamura and former deputy governor Taisuke Ono-competing for the position. Nakamura, 66, is backed by the Liberal Democratic Party and Komeito, while both candidates are running as independents. Key election issues include addressing economic disparities between northern and southern Kumamoto, revitalizing Yatsushiro’s economy, and implementing disaster recovery measures following this month’s record-breaking heavy rains. With 98,657 registered voters as of August 23, the election will take place on August 31, 2025.
