Leadership Race For Japan's New Opposition Party
Campaigning for the leadership of a new opposition party in Japan kicks off on Monday. The party is being created through a merger of the Constitutional Democratic Party of Japan and the Democratic Party for the People.
Two lawmakers are expected to run -- Constitutional Democratic Party leader Edano Yukio and Izumi Kenta, chair of the Policy Research Committee of the Democratic Party for the People.
Edano told reporters on Sunday that if he is selected as leader of the new party, he wants to set up a system in which female, junior, middle-ranking and veteran members can actively participate.
Izumi said he aims to create a leadership that will listen to the people's voices and establish an open organization.
The candidates are expected to exchange views on how to run the party, with an eye on the next Lower House election. They will also likely discuss economic measures for the coronavirus era.
The leadership vote will take place on Thursday, with 149 Diet members who will join the new party casting ballots.
