In a shocking revelation regarding the recent Hyogo Prefectural gubernatorial election, it has come to light that a key figure behind the controversial social media strategies was Ayumu Yasutomi, an honorary professor at the University of Tokyo. The article, published by Shukan Bunshun, delves into the intricate web of social media manipulation surrounding the campaign of former governor Motohiko Saito and his ally Takashi Tachibana.

The article outlines the roles of two women, one of whom is Kaede Oda from the company Meru, who managed the official social media presence, while the other, referred to as “Honda,” controlled the covert operations behind the scenes. This underground strategy reportedly involved disseminating misinformation that significantly influenced public sentiment during the election.

As the election unfolded, troubling allegations emerged, including accusations of potential violations of electoral laws due to the financial ties between Saito and his social media operatives. Despite police investigations and public outcry, including a criminal complaint filed by legal experts, progress has been slow, raising concerns about accountability and transparency.

The digital campaign, which included over 400 volunteers, was orchestrated to promote Saito while disparaging his opponent, Inamura. Through various platforms, including LINE, damaging misinformation was spread, leading to serious consequences, including public unrest and the resignation of key political figures.

This scandal sheds light on the growing influence of social media in politics, emphasizing the need for stricter regulations to prevent the spread of false information and protect the integrity of democratic processes. As the investigation continues, the implications of these actions for future elections remain a pressing concern for both authorities and citizens alike. The outcome could redefine the landscape of political campaigning in Japan, highlighting the critical intersection of technology and democracy.