Academic Misrepresentation and the Public Offices Election Act (Japan)

Article 235(1): “False Statement Offense”
If a candidate (or their associates) makes a false statement about career history or other matters for the purpose of winning an election, it constitutes a crime.
→ Penalty: Imprisonment of up to 2 years or a fine of up to 300,000 yen. The election result can also be invalidated.

A candidate falsely claimed to have studied abroad in the U.S. and graduated from a university.
The case went up to the Supreme Court, which ruled that “false academic or career credentials that could influence voters’ judgment are illegal.”
The candidate was found guilty, setting a clear precedent that misrepresentation of academic background can violate the law.

In her election documents, she claimed “Graduated from Toyo University, Faculty of Law”, but it was later revealed she had actually been expelled.
The city council and some citizens have filed a criminal complaint, citing Article 235.
Takubo denies intentional wrongdoing, arguing she “believed she had graduated.” However, following past precedent, the central question is whether she knowingly made a false statement to win the election.

Conclusion

Yes, academic misrepresentation can fall under Article 235 of the Public Offices Election Act.
There is clear precedent where false academic or career claims led to a conviction.
In the current Ito case, whether the law applies depends on proving the intent to deceive for electoral gain.