Tokyo governor to head new national party

Sep 26, 2017 | News On Japan

Sep 26, 2017 (NHK) - Tokyo Governor Yuriko Koike has announced plans to create a new political party with her allies and become its leader.

Her allies, including Lower House lawmaker Masaru Wakasa and former Environment Minister Goshi Hosono, have been preparing to set up a new party.

The announcement comes as Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe plans to dissolve the lower house on Thursday for the purpose of a general election.

On Monday, Koike told reporters that the name of the party will be "Kibou no To," or party of hope.

She described herself as the party's flag-bearer, and stressed that she would be directly involved in the launch process.

As for her current post, Koike said she will continue to serve as Tokyo Governor, and added that she is determined to do a better job.

Seven lawmakers, including Wakasa, met in Tokyo late Sunday to finalize the party platform and policy details.

The group says it will officially announce the launch on Wednesday.

Source: ANNnewsCH

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