Former Fukuoka Assembly Speaker Resigns, Declines to Hold Press Conference

Kurauchi Isao, the former speaker of the Fukuoka Prefectural Assembly, has officially resigned as an assembly member amid a growing money scandal.

Following calls from the public and media for him to hold a press conference to address the allegations, Kurauchi declined, submitting a written document instead in which he stated that holding such a conference "should be avoided."

At the time he announced his resignation, Kurauchi had told reporters he would "report slowly" on the matter at a later date in Fukuoka, suggesting a fuller explanation would eventually come.

The controversy centres on a scandal involving money Kurauchi is alleged to have received. He reportedly acknowledged being "prepared for a high hurdle," indicating he anticipated intense scrutiny over the issue.

The case is tied to an overseas study trip taken by prefectural assembly members, during which a dinner in Paris reportedly cost around 1 million yen, raising questions about the use of public funds.

An independent third-party committee, formed to investigate the allegations, has held its own press conference to update the public on its findings regarding the trip and the associated expenses.

Fukuoka Governor Hattori has also addressed the controversy, defending the overseas trip as "a necessary effort," though he has not elaborated in detail on the justification for the costs involved.

The resignation and the ongoing investigation have intensified scrutiny of how public officials in Fukuoka Prefecture use taxpayer money for international travel, and whether sufficient accountability measures are in place to prevent misuse.

As the third-party committee continues its work, further details about the scope of the alleged financial misconduct and any additional individuals involved are expected to emerge in the coming weeks.