With the two Houses controlled by different political camps, the legislative gridlock inevitably paralyzed policymaking. Whoever becomes the next LDP president and takes over the reins of power will sooner or later face a similar political impasse. Public support for the government will not rise as long as this fundamental problem remains unsolved.

The mission of the new prime minister, chosen through an LDP presidential election, will be to dissolve the Lower House as early as possible to face the voters' verdict. Without winning a clear public mandate, the new leader will not be able to govern the nation from a solid political position.

The urgent political imperative at the moment is to show the public a convincing plan to rebuild the social security system and restore health in public finances at the same time. It is also crucial to work out an effective package of measures to re-energize the faltering economy.

Depending on the circumstances, choices that cause pain for the public may be unavoidable. Japan must regain as soon as possible an administration that embodies the will of the public and is underpinned by solid political legitimacy.

The Asahi Shimbun

(China Daily September 4, 2008)