TOKYO, Mar 14 (NNN-NHK) – Japanese Prime Minister, Fumio Kishida, yesterday urged ruling Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) lawmakers, to unite as one, to win the upcoming House of Councillors election and ensure a stable coalition government.
Kishida, president of the LDP, made the remarks at a party convention, emphasising the importance of its coalition with its smaller partner Komeito.
He dismissed an emerging view that the relationship between the LDP and Komeito has become awkward, over cooperation in the election, which will possibly be held in July.
“Is there any other option than LDP-Komeito that can be entrusted with governing the country, when we face history-making challenges? I don’t think so,” Kishida said.
“At times, upper house elections have triggered a big political change. Let us unite as one and secure a victory,” said Kishida, who was elected LDP president last Sept.
The House of Councillors election this summer, is a key test for Kishida as head of the LDP and also as prime minister, who will be judged by voters on his handling of the COVID-19 pandemic and the economy.
“The stage is set for cooperation in the House of Councillors election. We will look at the situation in each constituency and seek substantive cooperation that will produce results,” said Natsuo Yamaguchi, chief of Komeito.– NNN-NHK
