Key Facts
• December 14: Shizuoka Prefecture’s Ito City held a mayoral re-election after political turmoil.
• Former Mayor Maki Takubo (55) lost with 4,131 votes, far below the winning threshold.
• Winner Kenya Sugimoto (43) secured 13,522 votes, defeating Tatsuya Ono (62) with 10,962 votes.
• Takubo faced allegations of academic fraud, leading to a loss of key supporters.
• On election night, 30–40 media personnel gathered outside Takubo’s registered office.
• Takubo canceled a press appearance, later addressing supporters via social media.
• Takubo denied academic fraud allegations, claiming miscommunication fueled the controversy.
• Despite defeat, Takubo expressed gratitude to loyal supporters and hinted at future plans.
• Takubo is undecided about running for office again but feels a sense of responsibility.
• Multiple criminal complaints related to election law violations are under investigation.
Summary
Former Ito City Mayor Maki Takubo, who lost the December 14 re-election, remains undeterred despite receiving only 4,131 votes compared to winner Kenya Sugimoto’s 13,522. Allegations of academic fraud significantly impacted Takubo’s support base, leading to a dramatic decline in votes. On election night, Takubo avoided the media but later addressed supporters via social media, expressing gratitude and denying the fraud claims. While undecided about future political ambitions, Takubo acknowledged the responsibility he feels toward his supporters. Investigations into election law violations linked to Takubo are ongoing, suggesting his political saga may continue into 2026.
