July 30: Following the hold of the opposition Democratic Party of Japan in the upper house tough challenges come in the way of Japanese premier. Since the party was established in 1955 this is the worst defeat of the Liberal Democratic Party in the elections of upper house.
The defeat was accepted by the Premier. But he ended the speculations of his stepping down the government and pledged once again to fulfill the promises he made during election campaign.
Election results left Abe with much reduced power in the office. The reaction of the people came in view of his association with various scandals and a failure leadership.
But the road ahead is tougher as he will have to seek the support of the opposition party to pass crucial legislation. With upper-house majority in the hands of DPJ the party would thwart any legislation it does not agree Though one aspect of the situation is this Premier Abe can override any legislation with majority in the upper house.
Most challenging would be the bill to renew the deployment of the Japanese forces in the Indian Ocean where troops are supporting US efforts to combat terrorism. The mandate expires this November.
International prestige and credibility would suffer if he failed to deliver the promises he made to international allies.
In view of the reduced power he would hardly be able to bring tax-reforms in the country. The recent defeat will also give a blow to his contemplated amendments revoking the restrictions on overseas deployment of Japanese forces to enhance Japanese stand on world stage.
Analysts see that staying in power even after suffering the defeat in upper house would increase the difficulties for the Premier. They suggest that he should follow the previous leaders who resigned when their party suffered in upper house.
Mishandling of the crucial matter, misuse of the political funds and recent nuclear plant episode took the popularity graph of Mr. Abe down.
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