January 14, 1999

Kiyoshi SASAMORI
General Secretary
Japanese Trade Union Confederation (JTUC-RENGO)

The second term of Prime Minister Obuchi was born today with the formation of a coalition government between the Liberal Democratic and Liberal Parties.

Both parties agreed to use their combined political power to restore the public's faith in politics and to create respect for Japan around the world.

Political coalitions are a way to form Cabinets and governments in this era of pluralized politics.

However, I feel quite strange about this latest Cabinet. It doesn't seem to have been formed for the purposes it claims.

The Liberal Democratic Party chose the Liberal Party in order to break opposition parties and maintain the number of Diet members for to remain in power.

The Liberal Party, headed by Mr. Ozawa, has thoroughly criticized the Liberal Democratic Party for the past five years. They have appealed for political reform and a rebirth of Japan. They should clarify their political goals in light of that history.

The coalition government is the first part of a framework that may lead to new alliances in the political world. However, allowing Mr. Obuchi to form a government for a second time without a general election is irregular. It may contradict constitutional principles.

It is my belief that the Diet should be dissolved as soon as possible, and a general election called. The people should be allowed to judge.

The most important task for both the government and the opposition is to overcome the current economic crisis and assure employment. RENGO will keep a careful eye on the new Cabinet's policies.

During this 145th National Diet, to recover from our current economic malaise and restore stability, hope and employment opportunities, RENGO will devote its utmost efforts to the following four goals:
Economic recovery, employment opportunities, social security reform and fairness in the work place.