#JAPAN: Referendum Would Consolidate Osaka Wards

[world politics news]

Five years after voters in the city of Osaka narrowly voted down a referendum on consolidating its 24 wards into five with more autonomy and eliminating the municipal assembly and mayor, another referendum is set for later this year.

The merger is the chief political goal of Osaka Ishin no Kai (One Osaka), the local party founded expressly for that purpose.



[FULL STORY [HEREl]

World Politics News is dedicated to raising Americans' knowledge of political events, elections, and legislation throughout the world.

#JAPAN: Rejection of Plan To Create Autonomous Districts Prompts Mayor of Osaka's Political Exit

[world politics news]

Osaka voters rejected a referendum proposal Sunday to merge the city into five semi-autonomous wards, dealing a crippling blow to Mayor Toru Hashimoto, once a rising star in Japanese politics. His Japan Innovation Party seeks greater local autonomy.

#JAPAN: Osaka Court Rules Tattoo Checks on City Employees is Illegal; Invades Privacy

[world politics news]

The Osaka District Court has ruled that Osaka Mayor Toru Hashimoto's order to check whether municipal office workers had tattoos was illegal and constituted an invasion of privacy.