Maebashi’s local government faces mounting pressure as city assembly members submitted a mayor resignation request on Wednesday. The demand follows a scandal involving Mayor Akira Ogawa, who visited hotels multiple times with a married male subordinate.
Seven assembly factions, representing 33 of 38 members, submitted the request, signaling near-unanimous concern. Moreover, they cited governance disruption, excessive employee workloads, and mental strain on city staff as major reasons for the demand.
Mayor Ogawa, 42, stated publicly that she held no romantic feelings and did not engage in a sexual relationship with the subordinate. However, assembly members rejected her explanation. They said public trust cannot return without clear accountability.
A representative from the largest assembly faction described the mayor resignation request as an ultimatum. He added that if Mayor Ogawa does not step down before the regular session in late November, the council may submit a formal resolution urging her removal.
The scandal has increased scrutiny of the mayor’s office. In addition, citizens and political analysts said inaction could worsen administrative stagnation and delay city policies.
Historically, scandals in local Japanese governments have prompted resignations or forced reelections. Therefore, the near-unanimous support for the mayor resignation request highlights the severity of the situation in Maebashi.
Mayor Ogawa now faces a complex political and social balancing act. Consequently, she must respond to assembly demands, rebuild trust among staff, and reassure residents about municipal integrity.
Experts noted that the coming weeks will determine whether the mayor resigns voluntarily, seeks reelection, or confronts a formal resolution. Furthermore, the outcome could reshape Maebashi politics for years.
The mayor resignation request reflects broader challenges in Japanese local politics. Specifically, it shows how personal behavior can directly influence governance credibility and public confidence.
Observers added that strong coordination among assembly factions signals a rare unified stance in local politics, thus putting additional pressure on the mayor to act swiftly.
