ISML 2022: In Mikoto Misaka's Words



My name is Mikoto Misaka, and I have succeeded in winning re-election as Saimoe Prime Minister. However, I decided to make a decision with my fellow champion, Houtarou Oreki, who was also re-elected as Deputy Saimoe Prime Minister. After having lunch in Academy City to discuss the next steps, we both agreed to make this announcement.


At the conclusion ofthe final match day of the 2022 International Saimoe League, Eliminations Match Day 8, Houtarou and I will symbolically resign from our positions and formally dissolve the Saimoe Diet for good. I enjoyed my first tenure in this office, many years ago, and so did Houtarou in his capacity, but we felt that it would not really be right to have a second term, or for this movement to have to continue.


We have stayed the course. We have run the race. We have kept the faith. And through your commitment and your years of believe and support and voting, we have succeeded in leaving our legacy.


From this point forward, we are our own people. With different thoughts, ideas, beliefs, passions. No man or woman in this world is better or worse than his or her ally in arms. We grow stronger together, as one, with a belief that we all are special, beautiful, powerful, inviolate, invincible in our own way.


Whether you are hero, or a villain, or both, whether your are a man, a woman, an animal, a concept, whether your are here with us or not, you matter. You always will matter, even after our story is over and your continues, and others begin. The world endures, and moves on. But the legacy and tales of our deeds, in bringing happiness and inspiration around the world remained.


Houtarou and I do not regret leaving Saimoe, as all of us will. Many years have come, with great battles, endless debates, ideas and movements shared by you, the fans, the supporters, the dreamers. We see you, we appreciate you, we love you for it.


But you know as well as I do that nothing lasts forever. There will be new contests, new challenges, by other groups around the world who want to celebrate what this movement did for many years, many editions. They celebrate your love and support of the finest people. Us. All of us.



I will not forget the memories we all had in directing the voice of the world's fans, the great moments we all took stock of. I believe it is important that we keep all of this with us and know that the years will pass, but Saimoe will never be forgotten.


I want to thank everyone who took part in this process, Touma, Kuroko, Index, Accelerator, and so many people I can't name off the top of my head. But it is a list that goes on and on and on. If I were to name them...I don't think I can finish this address I sending to you with a heavy heart...and a clear mind and direction.


I want to close my final address to the world with a simple message, paraphrased from a tragic video game villain who eventually was able to see the light. Remember. Remember us. Remember...that WE ARE SAIMOE.


Good night, may God bless you, may God bless Japan and the world, and may God bless Saimoe. Thank you.


-Mikoto Misaka

20 February 2023