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Unanimous vote ends mayor's 16-year tenure
The Hachirogata town assembly in Akita prefecture has removed Mayor Kikuo Hatakeyama, 72, after he fell unconscious in February following a brain hemorrhage.
Medical crisis triggers rare no-confidence motion
Hatakeyama, who had served since 2008, was hospitalized in February. The town assembly passed a no-confidence motion against him on Saturday, citing administrative necessity. The decision was unanimous.
The National Association of Town and Village Assemblies in Japan noted that such motions against mayors due to illness are uncommon.
Legal hurdles led to no-confidence vote
Under local law, mayors must personally notify the assembly chair of their intent to resign. Since Hatakeyama remains unconscious, a resignation request submitted by his family was deemed invalid by the town government last month.
The no-confidence motion was chosen as the fastest legal route to remove him from office. He will officially lose his position on 19 May.
Family's plea and next steps
Hatakeyama's wife had previously asked the assembly to evaluate whether he could continue in his role, stating that resignation would be the best outcome for him, according to the Japan Times.
A successor will be elected within 50 days, as required by law.
About Hachirogata
Located in Akita prefecture, Hachirogata has a population of approximately 5,000. The town's economy relies on agriculture, particularly rice farming, and commercial fishing.
One council member also represents the district in the Akita Prefectural Assembly.
