Editorial

14:00 JST, January 17, 2026

The aim likely is to gain momentum toward realizing the Osaka metropolis plan, a long-cherished goal of the Japan Innovation Party.

However, even if both the Osaka governor and Osaka mayor are reelected in the double elections, there is no guarantee they will gain approval in the crucial referendum. This is clear from past cases. The judgment of Gov. Hirofumi Yoshimura, who is also head of the Japan Innovation Party, and others is difficult to understand.

To hold the Osaka gubernatorial and mayoral elections along with the House of Representatives election expected to take place in early February, Yoshimura and Mayor Hideyuki Yokoyama, who is also the JIP’s deputy representative, have both submitted their resignations. Yoshimura will run for a third term, while Yokoyama seeks a second.

The........

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