Scandal-hit ex-Maebashi mayor reelected.

Former Maebashi Mayor Akira Ogawa was reelected, overcoming a scandal while promising to improve the city and increase voter engagement.

Former Maebashi Mayor Akira Ogawa came back strong after a scandal that had her stepping down. Reelected in a hotly contested election, she beat four other candidates, including lawyer Akira Maruyama, while the voter turnout spiked to 47.32% from 39.39% last February. During her campaign, she didn’t shy away from the controversy, openly apologizing for her previous actions but emphasizing her commitment to change Maebashi.

Ogawa highlighted her accomplishments, like launching a free school lunch program, while assuring supporters she’s ready to work towards a better future for Maebashi. Despite Maruyama's backing from influential factions, he couldn't secure the win. With this reelection, Ogawa is set to complete her term until February 2028, proving she can weather any storm.

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