Overview
- Deputy Mayor Takao Tōma said Koja Keishun conveyed his intent to resign on Nov. 16, and staff were informed on Nov. 17 as the council opened an extraordinary session.
- Council leaders moved to discuss a resignation letter, leaving the timing and necessity of a second no-confidence vote uncertain during the first post-election meeting.
- Under election law, a resignation on Nov. 17 would require a mayoral vote within 50 days, by Jan. 6, 2026, with pay and benefits prorated for days in office.
- A city third-party committee in May formally recognized sexual and power harassment and urged resignation, and a council survey logged nine staff reports including unwanted kissing and inappropriate touching at drinking events.
- Koja has denied the allegations for about two years; the council first passed no confidence on Sept. 26, he dissolved the chamber on Oct. 6, and pre-election polling indicated 18 of 20 councilors would back a new censure, which requires two-thirds attendance and a majority yes vote.