Key Facts
• November 27, 2025: Akira Ogawa’s resignation accepted by Maebashi City Council.
• Ogawa admitted to visiting hotels with a married subordinate but denied any relationship.
• September 24, 2025: Allegations of inappropriate conduct reported by NEWS Post Seven.
• November 25, 2025: Ogawa submitted resignation to avoid a no-confidence vote.
• January 5, 2026: Mayoral election announcement; voting scheduled for January 12.
• Ogawa expressed strong intent to run in the upcoming election.
• Former Mayor Ryu Yamamoto also considering candidacy amid political division.
• Key challenge: Unifying divided factions of the ruling Liberal Democratic Party.
• Ogawa has already set up an election office, signaling readiness for the campaign.
• Maebashi remains politically divided, with Ogawa retaining significant local support.
Summary
Akira Ogawa, the former mayor of Maebashi, resigned on November 27, 2025, following allegations of inappropriate conduct involving a married subordinate. Despite admitting to visiting hotels, Ogawa denied any improper relationship. His resignation preempted a no-confidence vote by the city council. Ogawa has expressed strong intent to run in the January 2026 mayoral election, with his campaign office already established. Meanwhile, former Mayor Ryu Yamamoto is also considering a return, citing concerns over the city’s political instability. The election is set to be a contentious battle, with the Liberal Democratic Party’s divided factions playing a critical role in determining the outcome. Ogawa’s significant local support and readiness for the campaign suggest a competitive race ahead.
