Yoshimura suggests Hyogo Governor’s controversy may have influenced Minoh mayoral election defeat

On August 26, Hirofumi Yoshimura, leader of the Osaka Restoration Association and Governor of Osaka Prefecture, addressed the media regarding the party’s unexpected loss in the Minoh City Mayoral Election held the previous day. This defeat marks a significant setback for the Restoration Association, as it is the first time since the party’s founding in 2010 that an incumbent leader endorsed by the party has been defeated.

In his press conference at the prefectural office, Yoshimura acknowledged the gravity of the loss, describing it as “a complete defeat” with no element of surprise. He refrained from speculating on the reasons behind the loss, stating that he would first seek input from local party members before drawing any conclusions.

Yoshimura’s remarks included an implicit acknowledgment of a possible connection between the election results and the ongoing controversy surrounding Hyogo Prefecture Governor Motohiko Saito. Saito has been accused of power harassment, a situation that Yoshimura suggested might have negatively impacted the Restoration Association’s campaign efforts. He noted that during his campaign support activities, he received feedback from citizens questioning the legitimacy of Saito’s case, which may have influenced public perception.

In the 2021 Hyogo gubernatorial election, Saito was supported by both the Restoration Party and the Liberal Democratic Party (LDP). Yoshimura pointed out that Saito’s association with the Restoration Party could have led to perceptions of complicity or endorsement that might have affected the election outcome. He reiterated his call for transparency, advocating for a thorough investigation into the allegations through the prefectural assembly’s special investigative committee.

This defeat comes as a notable blow to the Restoration Association, highlighting potential vulnerabilities in the party’s political strategy and its handling of internal controversies. As the party reflects on this loss, the implications of the Hyogo governor’s issues on their electoral prospects will likely be a key focus in forthcoming evaluations and strategic adjustments.