Masayuki Nakao, the vice speaker of the Fukuoka Prefectural Assembly, resigned from his leadership post and assembly seat on Friday [1].
The resignation follows accusations that Nakao operated a "money-for-position" scheme, which critics describe as a form of extortion to secure political standing [1]. The scandal threatens the credibility of the prefectural government and highlights potential systemic corruption within the regional legislative body [1].
During a press conference held shortly after 1 p.m. on July 24, Nakao denied all allegations of financial misconduct. "I have not received any money. It is completely groundless," Nakao said [1]. He announced his intention to take legal action against the accuser, stating, "I will sue the accusing member" [1].
The controversy centers on allegations brought forward by assembly member Yoshiaki Yoshimatsu. Yoshimatsu described the demands as "katsuage" — a Japanese term for extortion — and likened them to protection money [1]. Yoshimatsu said he understood the demands as taking advantage of people who could not defy their superiors within the political group [1].
Reports regarding the specific amounts of money involved vary by source. One report states the accuser demanded 10 million yen for golf-related expenses [2]. Another report cites a higher figure, alleging a payment of 27.5 million yen for the vice speaker post [3]. The accuser has cited an audio recording from 2019 to support the claims, meaning the events in question occurred seven years ago [2].
While Nakao maintains he never accepted funds, other members of the assembly have offered different accounts. Assembly member Eto said on social media that he had paid money as part of a long-standing custom [4]. Nakao's resignation is intended to prevent further damage to the assembly's reputation as the legal battle with Yoshimatsu begins [1].
“"I have not received any money. It is completely groundless."”
This resignation reflects a deepening conflict within the Fukuoka Prefectural Assembly over 'customary' payments and the abuse of seniority. The discrepancy in reported figures — ranging from 10 million to 27.5 million yen — suggests a complex web of allegations that may extend beyond a single individual. By suing the accuser, Nakao is shifting the conflict from a political ethics dispute to a legal battle over defamation and evidence.
