Key Facts
• August 30, 2025: Ito City Council schedules no-confidence vote for September 1.
• Mayor Maki Takubo accused of falsifying academic credentials.
• All 19 council members support the motion, ensuring likely approval.
• Special investigation committee (Hyakujou Committee) confirms deliberate academic fraud.
• Committee recommends criminal charges for violating Local Autonomy Law.
• No-confidence motion criticizes Takubo as “unfit for office” and a “negative symbol.”
• Approval requires attendance of two-thirds of council and three-fourths majority vote.
• If passed, Takubo must dissolve the council or resign within 10 days.
• Public unrest includes over 10,000 signatures demanding Takubo’s resignation.
• Allegations include false claims about graduation and suspicious diploma presentation.
Summary
The Ito City Council in Shizuoka Prefecture is set to vote on a no-confidence motion against Mayor Maki Takubo on September 1, 2025, following allegations of deliberate academic fraud. A special investigation committee confirmed the falsification of credentials and recommended criminal charges. The motion, supported by all 19 council members, criticizes Takubo as “unfit for office” and a “negative symbol.” If approved, Takubo must either dissolve the council or resign within 10 days. Public dissatisfaction is evident, with over 10,000 signatures collected demanding her resignation. The case has drawn national attention, highlighting concerns over governance and transparency.
