Key Facts
• August 28, 2025: Three citizens submitted a request to Mayor Maki Takubo.
• Issue: Takubo allegedly falsified her academic credentials, claiming graduation from Toyo University.
• September 1, 2025: City council to discuss a no-confidence motion against Takubo.
• If passed, Takubo must choose between dissolving the council or resigning within 10 days.
• Dissolving the council could cost approximately 45 million yen in election expenses.
• Citizens argue dissolution would harm public finances and disrupt governance.
• Takubo stated she would respect the council’s decision but refrained from commenting further.
• Citizens’ representative Kei Otake warned of potential legal actions if dissolution occurs.
• A special investigative committee is set to release findings on Takubo’s academic fraud on August 29, 2025.
Summary
In Ito City, Shizuoka Prefecture, Mayor Maki Takubo faces allegations of falsifying her academic credentials. On August 28, 2025, three citizens submitted a request urging Takubo not to dissolve the city council if a no-confidence motion against her is passed. The council is expected to deliberate on the motion during its September 1 session. If passed, Takubo must decide within 10 days whether to dissolve the council or resign. Dissolution could cost approximately 45 million yen, which citizens argue would strain public finances and disrupt governance. Takubo has stated she will respect the council’s decision but refrained from further comment. Citizens’ representative Kei Otake indicated potential legal actions if dissolution proceeds. Meanwhile, a special investigative committee is set to release findings on Takubo’s alleged academic fraud on August 29, 2025.
