Waki celebrates his confirmed victory with cheers at his office in Naka Ward, Yokohama.

The 27th House of Councillors election was held, and newcomer Waki Masaaki (43) from the Liberal Democratic Party, who left his civil service job to enter national politics, secured his first election victory. Around 8:05 p.m. at his office in Naka Ward, Yokohama, he expressed gratitude, saying, “Thanks to everyone’s support, I was able to win. I deeply appreciate the trust placed in me, an unknown newcomer.” He shared his joy by shaking hands with the party’s prefectural chairman and Agriculture Minister Koizumi Shinjiro, stating his ambition: “I will work hard to restore trust in politics and the LDP by delivering results.”

Waki sheds tears of joy after his victory is confirmed at his office in Naka Ward, Yokohama.

Having worked as a Ministry of Internal Affairs bureaucrat before transferring to the prefecture during the pandemic, he leveraged his 11 years of experience in local administration. He also aimed to “serve as a bridge to engage people previously uninvolved in politics,” leading him to apply for the party’s open recruitment and secure official endorsement last summer.

Despite low name recognition and unfavorable party conditions, he campaigned tirelessly, relying on his energy and grassroots efforts. With full support from party lawmakers at national and local levels, he secured victory through a well-organized campaign.

“I will expand the circle of trust given to me by the people. I am determined to be a results-driven politician,” he reaffirmed.

Waki smiles while holding a congratulatory bouquet at his office in Naka Ward, Yokohama.

Waki Masaaki Originally from Miyazaki Prefecture, he is the youngest of six siblings and worked as a newspaper delivery boy to support his family. After serving as a Ministry of Internal Affairs bureaucrat in Kanagawa Prefecture, he transferred there permanently during the pandemic, accumulating 11 years of experience in local governance. During his bureaucratic career, he founded “Yonnana-kai,” a network for civil servants nationwide. His hobbies include exploring locally beloved restaurants, and his motto is “Ichigo Ichie” (treasure every encounter). He resides in Yokohama’s Tsurumi Ward and is 43 years old.

House of Councillors

The **House of Councillors** is the upper house of Japan’s National Diet (parliament), established in 1947 under the post-World War II Constitution. It replaced the pre-war Imperial Diet’s House of Peers and serves as a deliberative body with the power to review and amend legislation passed by the lower house, the House of Representatives. Members are elected through a mixed system of proportional representation and regional districts, with staggered six-year terms ensuring continuity.

Liberal Democratic Party

The Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) is Japan’s dominant political party, founded in 1955 through the merger of conservative factions. It has governed almost continuously since its creation, playing a key role in Japan’s post-war economic growth and political stability. The LDP is known for its pro-business policies, close ties with the U.S., and occasional nationalist leanings.

Naka Ward, Yokohama

Naka Ward is a central district in Yokohama, Japan, known for its vibrant cultural sites and historical significance. It is home to the iconic Yokohama Chinatown, one of the largest in the world, as well as the historic Yamate area, where Western-style residences from the late 19th century still stand. The ward blends modern urban life with rich history, reflecting Yokohama’s role as an early international port city.

Ministry of Internal Affairs

The Ministry of Internal Affairs (MVD) is a government agency in many countries, typically responsible for domestic security, law enforcement, and public administration. Originating in 19th-century Russia under Tsar Alexander I, it has evolved to oversee police, migration, and emergency services in various nations. Its structure and duties vary by country, often playing a key role in maintaining internal order.

Kanagawa Prefecture

Kanagawa Prefecture, located south of Tokyo in Japan, is a vibrant region known for its mix of urban centers, historic sites, and coastal beauty. It is home to Yokohama, Japan’s second-largest city, as well as Kamakura, the former political capital of the 12th–14th centuries, famous for its Great Buddha and ancient temples. The prefecture also played a key role in Japan’s modernization, with Yokohama serving as a major port during the country’s opening to the West in the mid-19th century.

Yonnana-kai

“Yonnana-kai” (与那国海底遺跡), also known as the Yonaguni Monument, is a submerged rock formation off the coast of Yonaguni Island, Japan. Discovered in 1986, its precise origins remain debated—some researchers argue it is a natural geological formation, while others believe it may be a man-made or modified structure dating back thousands of years, possibly linked to an ancient civilization. The site attracts divers and researchers intrigued by its terraced steps, straight edges, and mysterious underwater presence.

Yokohama’s Tsurumi Ward

Yokohama’s Tsurumi Ward is a vibrant district known for its industrial heritage and cultural diversity, located in eastern Yokohama, Japan. Historically, it developed as a key industrial and transportation hub in the early 20th century, home to factories, warehouses, and the Tsurumi River port. Today, it blends modern commerce with green spaces like the Tsurumi Ryokuchi Park and cultural sites such as the Yokohama Science Frontier High School, reflecting its dynamic past and present.

Miyazaki Prefecture

Miyazaki Prefecture, located on the southeastern coast of Kyushu Island in Japan, is known for its lush landscapes, warm climate, and rich Shinto heritage. It is home to Takachiho Gorge, a sacred site in Japanese mythology where the sun goddess Amaterasu is said to have hidden in a cave. The region also boasts historic shrines like Udo Jingu and is a popular destination for surfing, agriculture, and eco-tourism.