KYOTO - Five newcomers have officially declared their candidacies in the Kyoto mayoral election as campaigning kicked off on Sunday, with the incumbent who has served four terms over 16 years choosing not to run for re-election.
The election campaign will focus on key issues such as the city's long-standing fiscal challenges, strategies to tackle over-tourism, and addressing the decline in the population, particularly among young residents.
Supported by the Communist Party, Kazuto Fukuyama (age 62) emphasizes the need for improved childcare policies.
(Fukuyama): "Let's use the tax money paid by the citizens to support their daily lives rather than just constructing buildings."
Former Kyoto City Council member Yoshie Murayama (age 45) advocates for reform in city administration.
(Murayama): "This election questions whether Kyoto will undergo change or remain unchanged."
Former Kyoto Prefectural Assembly member Masashi Ninoyu (age 44) shows eagerness for fiscal reconstruction.
(Ninoyu): "We should collect money from places like temples that charge admission fees, similar to the old city tax."
Koji Matsui (age 63), endorsed by four political parties, appeals for cooperation beyond party lines.
(Matsui): "We must continue to advance Kyoto's municipal government, which our predecessors worked hard to build."
In addition, Yutaka Takie (age 35), a newcomer endorsed by various factions, has submitted his candidacy.
The Kyoto mayoral election is scheduled for February 4th.
Source: YOMIURI
