The Hyogo Prefectural Assembly in western Japan has passed a no-confidence motion against its governor.

Saito Motohiko has been accused of power harassment and other misconduct. He will soon have to decide whether to dissolve the assembly or lose his job.

Eighty-six prefectural assembly members, from all voting blocs as well as independents, unanimously have approved a no-confidence motion against Saito on Thursday.

In March, a whistleblower came forward with allegations against the governor, but he was later found dead of a suspected suicide before he could give official testimony.
A survey unearthed more allegations of power harassment against Saito, intensifying the calls for him to resign but so far, he has refused.

Saito spoke to reporters after the motion passed. He said: "It shows this is a serious situation for me. So, I think it's important for me to think carefully. I will let everyone know when I'm ready to announce my decision."

Saito is expected to lose his job in 10 days. He could become the first Japanese governor to dissolve his prefectural assembly after losing a no-confidence vote.