The case of controversial politician Tachibana Takashi has been sent to prosecutors on suspicion of libel, intimidation, and forcible obstruction of business.  

The allegations relate to the Hyogo gubernatorial election held last year.  

Around late October 2024, while running for governor, “NHK Party” leader Tachibana made several posts on social media.  

He claimed that Okutani Kenichi, a Hyogo prefectural assembly member, had “covered up the cause of death” of a prefectural government employee.  

Okutani had chaired a committee investigating Hyogo Governor Saito Motohiko’s alleged misconduct in relation to the prefectural employee’s whistleblowing.  

In November, Tachibana also appeared outside Okutani’s home and office. 

He allegedly shouted, “Come out, Okutani,” and “It would be a problem if you killed yourself.”  

Okutani filed a police complaint, prompting the investigation.  

Tachibana has denied all charges. 

He told Nippon News Network that he expects the case to be sent to prosecutors, so he will calmly wait for their decision.