Japanese Trade Union Confederation (RENGO)

Koga Speaks out!
Statement on Presidential Election of the Democratic Party of Japan (DPJ)

1.   The Presidential election of the Democratic Party of Japan (DPJ) started at 3 p.m. today, following Mr. Maehara’s announcement to resign as DPJ leader last Friday. As a result, DPJ Diet members elected Mr. Ichiro Ozawa as their new President. Mr. Ozawa received 119 votes, while Mr. Kan garnered 72 votes. New executive members will be announced early next week.

2.   RENGO welcomes and respects the voting result, which was produced by responsible DPJ lawmakers based on public opinions, mainly through the media, as well as on sincere internal discussions.

3.   Needless to say, the DPJ is at a critical moment. RENGO wishes that the DPJ will make today a turning point and turn over a new leaf.

4.   RENGO has a strong desire that, as the society is being bipolarized with widening gaps, Mr. Ozawa grasp what people and workers expect from the DPJ and challenge dynamic controversies in the latter half of the current Diet session against Koizumi’s structural reform line. RENGO also hopes that all DPJ lawmakers will be united on the basis of diversity and flexibility and strive as one to build a “trustworthy DPJ”.

5.   For development of Japan’s democracy, RENGO believes that a tense two-party system is a prerequisite The DPJ should win local elections and an upper House election set for next year and cut its new path to a change of regime.

6.   RENGO will deepen dialogue with Mr. Ozawa and the DPJ, with a view to strengthening the relationship of mutual trust. We will make every possible effort at both central and local levels to support the DPJ.