Divided they fall
Article Abstract:
Japan's ruling Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) has benefited from the divisions within the opposition New Frontier Party. Some opponents of the LDP are now creating a new alliance, but they still lack common policies and a leader. The LDP, which has ruled Japan almost continuously since 1955, has been able to remain in power became voters have no expectations from opposition parties and because it has been able to be extremely flexible. Politicians have had close links with bureaucrats for many years in Japan, and this has led to a lack of strong, charismatic political leaders.
Publication Name: Far Eastern Economic Review
Subject: Business, international
ISSN: 0014-7591
Year: 1998
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Miti no more
Article Abstract:
A Japanese council headed by Prime Minister Ryutaro Hashimoto revealed its government reform plans in Aug 1997. Hashimoto had pledged during the Oct 1996 general election campaign that he would reform the institutions governing Japan. Critics believe the promises are not fulfilled in the reform plans. However, the plans did incorporate important reforms including changes to the authority of the Ministry of International Trade and Industry, a proposal to privatize the post-office life insurance system, and a proposal to reduce the number of high-ranking ministries.
Publication Name: Far Eastern Economic Review
Subject: Business, international
ISSN: 0014-7591
Year: 1997
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Sorry, Asia
Article Abstract:
The Japanese government has been slow to take action to resolve its economic problems because an election is being held on July 12 to elect 50% of the House of Councillors. Parliament goes into recess on June 18 to give candidates time to campaign but this reduces the time available to decide on new economic strategies such as tax cuts. The Prime Minister is in no hurry to make economic decisions because the ruling party is likely to win again, despite the state of Japan's economy and high levels of unemployment.
Publication Name: Far Eastern Economic Review
Subject: Business, international
ISSN: 0014-7591
Year: 1998
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