Fukui Sets January 25 Governor Election Following Resignation Over Harassment

Overview

• The Fukui Election Management Committee set the gubernatorial race for official announcement on January 8, 2026 and voting on January 25, 2026.
• The prefectural assembly chair formally notified the committee of Tatsuji Sugimoto’s resignation on the morning of December 8, starting the scheduling process.
• Japan’s Public Offices Election Law requires a gubernatorial vote within 50 days from the day after the resignation notice, resulting in a compressed campaign period.
• Sugimoto admitted on November 25 to sending messages judged as sexual harassment and resigned after unanimous consent by the prefectural assembly on December 4.
• Sugimoto has said he is not considering running, and other local contests in the prefecture are slated for January 25 as well.