Pro-gambling Yoshinobu Nisaka becomes Wakayama governor again

Yoshinobu Nisaka, the current governor of Wakayama, has won a fourth term as governor in the Japanese prefecture, spreading cheer among pro-gambling groups in Japan. He is an open supporter of starting integrated resorts (IR) in the region.

Wakayama is one of the frontrunners in the race to get selected as one of Japan’s first ever provinces to open an IR facility. The re-election of Nisaka is a big boost in that regard.

The 68-year-old politician has won the governorship a little assistance from the Liberal Democratic Party and its coalition partner, Komeito.

Nisaka ran the election campaign by pitching for IR and its advantages such as boost in tourism and increase in revenues. He said after the election: “The negative effects of having a casino can be prevented. I will explain its positive sides to the citizens.”