Tokyo Governor Koike Wins Third Term

Tokyo Governor Koike Yuriko has secured her third term in office following Sunday’s election. In her victory speech, Koike highlighted Tokyo’s pressing issues, such as rising prices and a declining birthrate, and pledged to expand free childcare to address the latter. She emphasized the need for digital transformation and improving conditions for women’s empowerment. Koike, 71, who has a background as a defense minister and member of Japan’s Diet, touted her achievements over her past two terms. She made history as Tokyo’s first female governor in 2016. In this election, Koike triumphed over a record 55 competitors, including former Akitakata City mayor Ishimaru Shinji and former Upper House lawmaker Renho.