Joetsu and Niigata political leadership updates

In Joetsu City, the city council has unanimously approved the appointment of Masao Nakamaru as the new vice mayor. Nakamaru, a 53-year-old Niigata prefectural official, succeeds Tomomatsu Yagi, whose term expired on September 30, 2026. Nakamaru previously held various roles within the prefecture, including positions in tourism and industrial policy.

Meanwhile, preparations are intensifying for the Niigata mayoral election. Following the closing of the September city council session, incumbent Mayor Hajime Nakahara, who is seeking a third term, stated he will accelerate preparations for the campaign. City council member Manabu Aoki has submitted his resignation to pursue the mayoral race, and management consultant Jun Hayabu has also announced his candidacy. The election is scheduled to be officially announced on October 11, with voting taking place on October 25.