Statement by Takeshi Niinami, Chairperson of Keizai Doyukai on Result of Presidential Election of Largest Opposition Party in Japan

September 23, 2024

Takeshi Niinami
Chairperson, Keizai Doyukai

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1. The Constitutional Democratic Party of Japan (CDP) has elected today Mr. Yoshihiko Noda--a member of the House of Representatives--as its new president. The foundation of the parliamentary democracy is the constructive policy debate between the ruling and opposition parties. Thus, the role played by the president of the CDP--the largest opposition party in Japan-- is crucial. We hope that President Noda will present a national vision looking ahead at a regime change, with counterproposals on the current crucial issues to the government and the ruling coalition, by capitalizing on his experience and insight as a former prime minister.
2. We look to the active policy debate in the parliament over the issues, in particular, of the new economic/fiscal policies as the economy shifts from deflation to inflation, labor market and social security system reforms that fit the era of Reiwa (2019-), economic security in response to higher geopolitical risks, and stable energy supply with an eye to further digitalization.
3. Meanwhile, elimination of the political nonconfidence among the public is a crucial bipartisan issue to be addressed during the upcoming parliamentary session. We expect President Noda to demonstrate strong leadership toward political reforms he advocated during the election campaign period.

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