Overview
- Nanjō Mayor Keishun Koja conveyed his intention to step down to his deputy, who relayed it to city staff on Monday, with the council expected to approve the resignation the same day.
- Under Japan’s Public Offices Election Act, a mayoral vote must be held within 50 days of a resignation, placing a likely election by January 6, 2026 if the exit is formalized on November 17.
- A city-appointed panel in May recognized sexual and power harassment against staff and urged Koja to quit, after which the council passed a no-confidence motion in September and his bloc faltered in this month’s council races.
- Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi met Japan Ishin co-leader Fujita at the Kantei and reaffirmed plans to cut Lower House seats, with both sides aiming to submit enabling legislation during the current Diet session.
- Separately, China intensified One-China messaging after Japan’s recent Taiwan remarks as Taiwan’s President Lai urged restraint, Hiroshima moved to DNA-test hair accompanying A-bomb remains, the Ground Self-Defense Force suspended a soldier for voyeurism, and Tomakomai police warned of rising bicycle thefts.