Friday, January 20, 2006. Volume 01, Number 03

Another 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 Website

Columbia, South Carolina Weather

Livedoor Co. [in Japanese]

The Liberal Democratic Party

Japan's Parliament: Lower House

Japan's Parliament: Upper House

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