Fukuoka Assembly Speaker Isao Kurauchi announces intention to resign

Isao Kurauchi, Speaker of the Fukuoka Prefectural Assembly, has announced his intention to resign from his position as Speaker. Kurauchi stated he intends to step down at an appropriate time to take responsibility for the confusion within the assembly, potentially around the September session following the establishment of a political ethics ordinance.

The decision follows allegations regarding high-cost overseas inspections and controversies involving the distribution of assembly posts. Kurauchi has declared the establishment of a third-party committee to investigate allegations of improper money exchanges and has committed to further assembly reforms. While he plans to resign as Speaker, he has denied any intention of resigning from his position as a prefectural assembly member.

Fukuoka Governor Seitaro Hattori described the announcement as “extremely heavy” but noted it would be inappropriate to comment on the specific timing of the resignation. The controversy has caused significant public outcry and political tension, with potential implications for the upcoming prefectural assembly elections in the spring.