DPJ secures a landslide victory; Yukio Hatoyama to be PM; Taro Aso accepts responsibility for LDP defeat; Obama looks forward to work closely with Hatoyama, “on a broad range of global, regional and bilateral issues"
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    • Opposition Democratic Party of Japan (DPJ) scored a landslide victory in the August 30 general elections, winning 308 seats in the 480-member House of Representatives. The ruling Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) having secured just over 100 seats was voted out of power for only the second time in its 54-year history. DPJ President Yukio Hatoyama is expected to be sworn in as the new Prime Minister, replacing LDP leader Taro Aso. The 62-year old Hatoyama thanked the electorate "for their courage in choosing a change of government." Aso stated that he will step down from his position, accepting moral responsibility for the defeat1.

    Analysts note that result may not radically alter Japan’s foreign policy positions, including the relationship with China, or the Korean nuclear issue. Reports noted that the massive stimulus package announced by Beijing (worth 4,000 billion yuan) has not only boosted China's domestic demand but has widened its imports, benefiting countries like Japan2.

    US President Obama on his part stated that he looked forward to working closely with Mr. Hatoyama, “on a broad range of global, regional and bilateral issues." He added that as “a close friend and ally, the United States awaits the formation of a new Japanese government3."

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