JCP-recommended candidate wins Fukushima mayoral election

In the Fukushima mayoral election on November 18 in Fukushima Prefecture,
Seto Takanori, an independent candidate recommended by the Japanese
Communist Party, was elected with 51.71 percent of total votes.

Seto, former Fukushima Prefectural Assembly member, was recommended by
the JCP, the Liberal Party, the Social Democratic Party, and the Association
for Good Fukushima City Administration. He has signed a policy agreement
with the JCP.

The issue of the election for the voters was whether they want the city
administration to support the citizens' living conditions or support the
"Koizumi Reform" which is imposing hardships on the citizens.

Seto said he has remained independent of any specific party or group
because the mayor should represent all citizens. He said he will take
concrete steps to help make a better Fukushima City. (end)