Tokyo's Shibuya Ward aims to begin issuing certificates recognizing same-sex partnerships by around the end of October, the ward's new mayor said on Wednesday.

Speaking at his inaugural news conference, Ken Hasebe, who campaigned on a pro-diversity platform, said ever since he won the mayoral race on April 26, people had been asking him when the ward would begin implementing the change.

"There is a possibility it might get delayed," the 43-year-old said. "But I have no intention to do this slowly. I know many people are looking forward to this.