Local government leaders are stepping up calls for legislation to create “special cities,” a new status that would allow ordinance-designated major cities to operate independently of prefectural governments with expanded authority. These major cities say the proposed system would help them respond more effectively to population declines, among other regional challenges. Prefectural governments, however, have raised concerns about the financial impact and the potential fragmentation of regional administration.
With talks between the two sides at an impasse, a central government advisory panel has started discussing the future governance of large cities, including the possible introduction of a special city system.
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