Hiroshima Mayor Kazumi Matsui discloses malignant brain tumor diagnosis

Hiroshima Mayor Kazumi Matsui announced during a remote press conference that he has been diagnosed with a malignant brain tumor. The diagnosis followed a medical checkup on September 18 and subsequent testing on September 24.

Matsui, 73, intends to balance medical treatment with his official duties. He plans to undergo approximately one month of treatment, including radiation and medication, and aims to return to full duties by late October. During his recovery, he intends to work remotely and does not plan to appoint an official deputy to handle his responsibilities, though he will utilize deputy mayors and senior officials for specific meetings.

Regarding the upcoming mayoral election scheduled for next spring, Matsui stated that his intention to run for a fifth term remains unchanged. Additionally, as the chairman of the Japan National Mayors Association, he noted that vice chairpersons will handle his duties in his absence.