Koike Wins Third Term as Tokyo Governor

Jul 07 (News On Japan) - Tokyo Governor Koike Yuriko has won her third term following Sunday's vote. Koike addressed her supporters and cited various challenges Tokyo is facing, such as soaring prices and the falling birthrate.

She has pledged to take action against the latter by expanding free childcare.

"Our challenge is how to proceed with digital transformation as industries have changed significantly," she said.

"Furthermore, the environment for women's empowerment is insufficient compared to other parts of the world," Koike said, adding, "We must raise up our efforts to keep improving Tokyo."

During the campaign, Koike stressed the achievements of her two terms in the governor's seat.

71-year-old Koike is a former defense minister who has served in both the upper and lower houses of Japan's Diet. She became Tokyo's first female governor in 2016.

Koike beat a record 55 rivals in the race. They included Ishimaru Shinji, former mayor of Akitakata City in western Japan's Hiroshima Prefecture as well as former Upper House lawmaker Renho.

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