PoliticsAre ‘Manju Shop’ Ballots Valid? Trial Begins Over Kamisu Mayoral Election

A trial has begun over whether ballots marked with wording such as “Manju Shop” should be counted in the mayoral election in Kamisu, Ibaraki Prefecture. Mayor Toshiyuki Kiuchi received a ruling invalidating his election after the ballots were not accepted as valid. He is asking the prefectural election administration commission to rescind that decision. The prefectural side argues that “Manju Shop” cannot replace a candidate’s real name.

Japan local electionsKamisuelection litigation

NNHK News★★☆☆☆2026-08-04 08:43Original