Yokohama Elects New Mayor After Power Harassment Controversy

Oct 19, 2026 | News On Japan

YOKOHAMA - Atsumi Harasawa, a 59-year-old lawyer making her first bid for mayor, won Yokohama's mayoral election on October 18, defeating former Mayor Takeharu Yamanaka, whose resignation over allegations of workplace bullying prompted the vote.

Harasawa celebrated her victory by pledging to work with residents to shape the city's future. "I will work hard together with everyone to build Yokohama's future, and I look forward to your continued support," she said.

Yamanaka, 54, sought to regain the mayoralty but failed to secure re-election after facing strong criticism over allegations of power harassment against city employees. The controversy, which led to his resignation, became a major issue in the election.

Following his defeat, Yamanaka apologized to his supporters, saying, "I am truly sorry that my own shortcomings have led to this result."

Voter turnout reached 45.56%, approximately four percentage points higher than in the previous mayoral election, reflecting increased voter participation following the controversy surrounding the former mayor.

Source: TBS

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