Hirofumi Yoshimura, leader of the Japan Innovation Party and governor of Osaka Prefecture, has indicated he might consider returning to national politics if the Osaka metropolis plan is approved in a referendum. He told JIP executives in Osaka that he aims to hold the local referendum on the regional administrative reorganization plan by spring 2027.
Hirofumi Yoshimura, who serves as leader of the Japan Innovation Party (JIP) and governor of Osaka Prefecture, stated during a meeting with party executives in Osaka on Sunday his intention to hold a local referendum on the Osaka metropolis plan by spring 2027. This plan, a key policy for the JIP, seeks regional administrative reorganization.
According to sources, Yoshimura indicated that if the initiative is approved in the referendum, he would study the possibility of returning to national politics. The JIP is positioning itself ahead of the 2026 Lower House election, and Yoshimura's potential move is drawing attention.
The Osaka metropolis plan has a history of being rejected in a previous referendum, but the JIP continues to push for it. Yoshimura's considerations could impact the party's strategy, though specifics remain to be seen based on future developments.