The four opposition parties, namely, the Democratic Party of Japan, the Liberal Party, the Social Democratic Party and the Independents Party (Mushozoku no kai) have reached an agreement on nominating their unified candidates in the 13 electoral districts for the upcoming House of Councilors election expected to be held this July. RENGO President Washio attended the "4 Opposition Parties Election Cooperation Candidate Nomination" which was the signing ceremony held on the 26th in a Tokyo hotel. Also in attendance were leaders from each opposition party teaming up for a change in administration.

Photo: Firm handshakes exchanged looking toward a change in administration.

At the gathering, the Democratic Party Leader Yukio Hatoyama showed his determination by stating, "we want to lead the ruling coalition in the house by more than ten seats." Liberal Party Leader Ichiro Ozawa said this was "an epoch making event in the history of constitutional politics," and Social Democratic Party Leader Takako Doi emphasized the significance that this cooperation was happening for "the first time in history." Deputy Representative Masami Tanabu of the Independents Party said in his address, "we will fight the ruling coalition with all our might."
Continuing, President Washio said in his address, "it is historical, however, only when a majority of the house seats are won can we say we have succeeded. I want us to receive the will of the nation and bring a new dawn to Japan."
Each party announced that they will consolidate candidates in 13 electoral districts, and in addition, conduct bipartisan cooperation in 6 districts. The four parties are planning to continue holding electoral cooperation consultations in multiple districts.

Diet Members' Council of RENGO held its 10th general meeting on the 22nd in Tokyo. The Council endorsed 47 House of Representatives members and 43 House of Councilors members for a total of 90 representatives (Democratic Party 74, Social Democratic Party 12, Liberal Party 1, and Independents 3).