The Hachirogata Town Council in Akita Prefecture passed a no-confidence motion Friday against Mayor Kikuo Hatakeyama, who remains unconscious after a brain hemorrhage [1], [2].
The decision ensures the town's administration can continue functioning. Because the mayor is unable to perform his duties, the council acted to prevent a total stagnation of local government operations [1], [2].
Hatakeyama, whose age is reported as either 71 [2] or 72 [1], collapsed during official business in February 2026 [1]. He has remained in an unconscious state since the medical emergency occurred. While one report suggested a more recent emergency in early May, the primary record indicates the hemorrhage happened in February [1], [2].
The council voted to approve the no-confidence resolution on May 8, 2026 [1]. Under the terms of the resolution, Hatakeyama will be automatically dismissed from his position on May 19, 2026 [1].
Council Chairperson Yuhei Yanagida said the move was a difficult but necessary step for the community. "To avoid the stagnation of town administration, as a painful choice, we are notifying the mayor that he must vacate his post," Yanagida said. He added that the council would pass the resolution while remaining deeply grateful for the achievements of Mayor Hatakeyama [1].
The town now moves toward a transition of power to fill the leadership vacuum. The automatic dismissal date provides a clear timeline for the legal transfer of authority to a designated successor, or the initiation of a new election process [1].
“The council acted to prevent a total stagnation of local government operations.”
This rare administrative action highlights the tension between personal medical tragedy and the legal necessity of governance. By utilizing a no-confidence vote rather than waiting for a medical recovery or death, the council is prioritizing the continuity of public services over the tenure of an incapacitated leader.
