Opposition Party's Leadership Campaign Underway
Two lawmakers have kicked off their campaigns for the leadership of Japan's new main opposition party. It is being created through a merger that includes the two largest opposition groups.
The race is between Izumi Kenta, the policy chief of the Democratic Party for the People, and Edano Yukio, the leader of the Constitutional Democratic Party of Japan.
Speaking to reporters during a news conference, Izumi said, "Through the leadership election, we will confront the ruling party with the expectations and voices of many Japanese people." He added, "I will do my best to take the lead with a sense of determination."
During the same news conference, Edano said, "The era demands that the formation of a new party will coincide with the end of the long-term Abe administration." He added, "We will run a party that can play an active role beyond generations and gender, from women to the young, the middle-aged and senior citizens."
The party members will vote on Thursday to choose their leader and the party's name.
Three years ago, Japan's largest opposition party at the time split up. Since then, the opposition has been unable to come together as a cohesive force against the ruling coalition.
