On May 6th,�AKB48 launched a channel on YouTube, where each member express their views and comments regarding the upcoming 'AKB48 27th Single General Election'.

In this short video, member Oshima Yuko mentioned that Maeda Atsuko will not be participating in the general election. She then stated, "People are saying that this is the�change of generations. In fact, I also think that AKB48 is going to enter a period of a change of generations."

Oshima also revealed that she considered withdrawing from the elections because she thought she would crush the change of generations if she were to be elected. However, she�commented, "By participating in this general election and becoming the center, I would like to rely on this as my last chance."

After this footage was released, fans started to worry thinking that this was a graduation declaration from the idol.�Oshima later explained the true meaning behind her statement through her official blog saying, "I said it's my 'last chance' through the appeal comment, but what I wanted to say was that I want to challenge myself to the general election as much as I would if it were my last chance."

Oshima continued, "So, it's not a graduation declaration. I'm sorry to have confused you. I have to study Japanese more."



Source: Narinari