Former Yokohama mayor announces bid to return after abuse scandal
Takeharu Yamanaka, who resigned this month after admitting to bullying staff, told supporters he will run in the Oct. 18 mayoral election.
Former Yokohama mayor Takeharu Yamanaka resigned earlier this month after a third-party investigation revealed he repeatedly bullied and verbally assaulted city employees, using demeaning language and misusing personnel authority. Speaking to his supporters on Monday, the 54-year-old apologized repeatedly and said he will seek forgiveness and fulfill the pledges he made to residents. He announced his intention to contest the Oct. 18 mayoral election and will issue a formal statement at a Tuesday press conference.
While many executives left his business-community support group after his resignation, several port-related firms remained loyal, citing his decision to drop a bid for an integrated resort with a casino. Yamanaka joins five other declared candidates in the upcoming contest.
