Masao Uchibori wins fourth term as Fukushima Governor

Masao Uchibori, the incumbent governor of Fukushima Prefecture, has secured victory in the gubernatorial election held on October 25, 2026. This win marks his fourth term in office, with his new four-year mandate set to begin on November 12.

Uchibori, 62, has served as governor since 2014, following roles as vice governor and various departmental heads. During his tenure, he has focused on reconstruction efforts following the Great East Japan Earthquake and the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear accident, as well as addressing regional population decline.

The election featured a record seven candidates, including six newcomers. Despite his reelection, Uchibori faces ongoing scrutiny regarding his administration's handling of two critical issues: the controversy surrounding the “overdiagnosis” of thyroid cancer through mass screenings and the management of misinformation related to Fukushima.