Local Leaders’ Scandals / Responsibility for Disrupting Government Remains

Editorial

16:14 JST, January 14, 2026

A spate of scandals involving local leaders across the country has raised doubts about their qualifications.

Local leaders are in a position to lead their governments, and it is obvious that their common sense has been scrutinized. They must be aware that they are constantly subjected to the public’s hard stare.

In the Maebashi mayoral election, Akira Ogawa, who ran again despite having resigned due to a scandal, defeated four newcomers to secure reelection.

Ogawa was reported to have met a married male subordinate at hotel multiple times last year. She repeatedly denied having a romantic relationship, explaining that they were discussing work matters, but resigned following criticism from the city assembly.

Her efforts since her first election in February 2024, such as implementing free school meals at elementary and junior high schools, appear to have earned her praise and led to her reelection.

Even though she has been entrusted by voters once again with steering Maebashi’s municipal government, her responsibility for disrupting the government through her own scandal cannot be erased.

Expenses to hold a mayoral election are said to exceed ¥100 million. Ogawa’s term runs until February 2028, the same as her original term. Had Ogawa not caused the trouble that resulted in her resignation, these expenses would have been avoided.

It is problematic when local leaders cause scandals that waste taxpayer money. Meanwhile, many citizens reportedly remain unconvinced by the outcome of the latest election.

Sexual and power harassment by other local leaders also continue unabated.

Former Fukui Gov. Tatsuji Sugimoto resigned last month after being accused of sexually harassing female prefectural staff.

According to the prefecture’s investigation report, Sugimoto sent messages containing sexual expressions to four female employees via email and other means. Additionally, there were three reports of Sugimoto touching them inappropriately.

These actions may constitute violations of the Anti¬-Stalking Law and indecent assault. Such despicable acts are outrageous.

The report also stated that in some cases, when the female employees consulted their superiors about the harassment, their superiors did not take the matter seriously.

The Fukui prefectural government should take seriously the suffering of the employees and implement countermeasures such as enhancing consultation services.

Last year, a third-party committee in Nanjo, Okinawa Prefecture, confirmed that the mayor committed acts of sexual harassment. The mayor of Ito, Shizuoka Prefecture, caused a public uproar over suspicion of falsifying her academic background. Both of them lost their job after receiving two no-confidence votes from city assemblies.

It is deplorable that incidents which erode public confidence in politics have continued in local governments. Officials must never forget the sense of responsibility that comes with holding public office.

(From The Yomiuri Shimbun, Jan. 14, 2025)