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Friday, January 20, 2006. Volume 01, Number 03Another busy
week, and a program that runs a few more minutes than the target of
twenty minutes. This time we look at the opening day of the 164th
Ordinary Session of Japan's Parliament, with focus on Prime Minister
Koizumi's policy address, and prospects for this session.Then
we consider the political significance of the Livedoor Co. securities
flap that erupted Monday afternoon in Tokyo. Livedoor President Horie
ran unsuccessfully for Parliament in the last election as an
independent candidate, but with considerable support and encouragement
from the LDP. Horie is a name we're bound to hear more of during this
session of the Diet.Then we return to the topic we began last
week, what early maneuvering in the LDP presidency race tells us about
how Japan's political environment has changed. I suggest that Koizumi
and politicians who share his perspective have a better understanding
of those changes than do the traditionalists. But also predict that the
traditionalists will continue to exercise influence over the selection
process.Below are links to individuals and organizations mentioned during this program:Japan Considered Project WebsiteColumbia, South Carolina WeatherLivedoor Co. [in Japanese]The Liberal Democratic PartyJapan's Parliament: Lower HouseJapan's Parliament: Upper House |