MIYAZAKI (Kyodo) Miyazaki Gov. Hideo Higashikokubaru will not run for re-election in December, sources close to the former entertainer said Monday.

Higashikokubaru, 53, became governor in January 2007 after his predecessor stepped down over a bid-rigging scandal. It has been reported that the former comedian and TV personality is willing to run for Tokyo governor next spring or shoot for a Diet seat in the next Lower House election.

The sources said he will formally announce the decision not to seek re-election Sept. 29.