Wataru Aso, the former Governor of Fukuoka Prefecture and Chairman of the National Governors' Association, passed away on March 15, 2025, at the age of 85 due to pancreatic cancer. His death occurred at Kyushu University Hospital located in Higashi Ward, Fukuoka City.
Aso was born in Kitakyushu City and pursued higher education at Kyoto University. After completing his degree, he joined the Ministry of International Trade and Industry (now known as the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry) back in 1963. Throughout his long and distinguished career, Aso served as the Director-General of the Commerce and Distribution Council and the Director-General of the Patent Office, showcasing his capabilities and commitment to public service.
His political career took off when he was elected as the Governor of Fukuoka Prefecture in 1995. Over the course of four consecutive terms, which lasted until 2011, Aso gained recognition for his dedicated efforts to empower local government authorities and improve the region's administrative structures. During his tenure, he focused on various initiatives to strengthen the governance at the local level.
From 2005 to 2011, Aso took on the role of Chairman of the National Governors' Association. His tenure was marked by significant reforms known as the "Three-pronged Reform," which sought to reshape the financial relationship between the national government and local authorities, emphasizing the transfer of tax revenue to bolster local governance. He devoted himself to gathering opinions from local governments during this period, reinforcing the need for local autonomy.
According to Kyodo News, Aso was deeply involved in advocating for local government concerns, ensuring their voices were heard amid the broader national policy discussions. His commitment to local governance reforms made him a pivotal figure during his time, and he was well-respected among his peers.
Wataru Aso's contributions extended beyond his official titles; he was seen as a mentor and advisor to many aspiring politicians and public servants. He exemplified leadership, advocating for the needs of the community and striving to strengthen the relationship between citizens and their local governments.
His passing marks the end of an era for Fukuoka and Japanese politics more broadly, where he is fondly remembered for his strategic mind and compassionate approach to governance. Aso's legacy is one of pushing the boundaries of what local governments could achieve and equipping them to navigate the challenges of increasingly complex administrative tasks.
Aso’s funeral will be held at 11:00 AM on March 23, 2025, at Yuuberu Sekizensha Fukuoka Funeral Hall, located at 70-1 Komaruemachi, Chuo Ward, Fukuoka City. His eldest son, Kentaro Aso, will serve as the chief mourner during the ceremony. The public is encouraged to pay their respects to the influential leader who spent his life serving the people of Fukuoka and beyond.
Although he is no longer with us, the impact of Wataru Aso's contributions to public service and local governance will undoubtedly continue to influence future generations. His dedication to enhancing the capabilities of local authorities ensures his legacy will remain alive, serving as a benchmark for accountability and community-engagement efforts throughout Japan.