Fukuoka Vice‑Chairman Nakao Resigns Amid Money‑For‑Post Scandal
On 24 July, Masayuki Nakao, vice‑chairman of the Fukuoka Prefectural Assembly, submitted his resignation after a prolonged “katsauge” (extortion) allegation that he demanded a large cash payment to secure senior assembly posts. Nakao repeatedly denied receiving any money, stating the accusations were “completely unfounded,” and apologized that the loss of public trust made it impossible for him to continue in office.
He announced he will sue Assembly member Gen‑Aki Yoshimatsu, who publicised an audio recording of a conversation they say shows Nakao arranging the payment, for defamation. Assembly speaker Yujiro Kurana said a third‑party panel of experts will be formed to investigate the matter, and Governor Seitaro Hattori also expressed support for an independent inquiry. Voice‑print analysis of the recording was reported to match Nakao’s voice, but he continues to contest the evidence.
The resignation, the planned lawsuit, and the upcoming independent investigation have drawn nationwide media attention, highlighting concerns over political corruption and governance in the prefecture.