Shizuoka Prefecture City Mayor Admits No Deception Regarding Educational Background
In the heart of central Japan, the city of Ito, Shizuoka Prefecture, finds itself embroiled in a controversy surrounding its mayor, Maki Takubo.
The special investigation committee, established by the Ito city assembly, is currently investigating allegations of academic record falsification by Takubo. These allegations centre around Takubo's claim to have graduated from Toyo University, a claim that has been called into question due to her expulsion from the institution.
Despite the serious allegations and political pressure, Takubo has not been formally charged with a crime as of August 2025. Initially, she admitted to the misrepresentation and even announced her resignation in July. However, she later withdrew her resignation late last month.
The city assembly has taken strong actions against Takubo, unanimously adopting a resolution urging her resignation and establishing a special investigation committee to look into the case. Takubo has denied lying about her academic record during a committee hearing and has refused to submit what she claims is her diploma, citing concerns that doing so might lead to criminal prosecution. The assembly has warned it might file a criminal complaint if she continues to refuse cooperation.
A local business operator has filed a criminal complaint accusing Takubo of violating the Public Offices Election Act related to this false academic claim, indicating possible ongoing legal scrutiny. However, the formal prosecution status remains unconfirmed in the public information.
Takubo testified before the special investigation committee for the first time on August 13. She has stated that she has already written a response to the Ito city assembly. Despite the ongoing investigation, Takubo has announced her intention to run in a fresh mayoral election.
The investigation is related to the election of Takubo as mayor of Ito, which took place in May this year. The Ito city assembly has requested Takubo's attendance again after she skipped a hearing on July 25. Takubo claims that submitting her diploma may lead to criminal prosecution, and as of the latest reports, no criminal charges have been formally brought against her.
The investigation is ongoing, and the city of Ito awaits the committee's findings with anticipation.
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