Fukuoka Prefectural Assembly Forms Third‑Party Committee to Probe Money‑Transfer Allegations

The Fukuoka Prefectural Assembly announced a policy shift and will establish a third‑party committee to investigate allegations that assembly chair Yūgo Kuranai and vice‑chair Hideo Etō received more than ¥20 million from senior Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) faction officials in exchange for their appointments. The investigation will follow the Japan Federation of Bar Associations' guidelines and involve external experts conducting hearings and fact‑finding. Kuranai said the decision came after strong public and internal pressure and that consultation with specialists finally revealed “the best path forward.” The committee’s work is expected to take time, and the assembly pledged to keep the public informed.