Has the old LDP returned?
Posted by Matt Dioguardi on October 3rd, 2007
The Yomiuri’s Political Pulse, currently authored by Koichi Akaza, is always worth reading. In the most recent installment Akaza argues the old LDP are not back despite what many are saying.
I disagree with his analysis. He basically takes a snap shot and compares the LDP now with the LDP before.
His analysis could be summed up this way –
The old system favored the formation of factions.
The current system does not favor the formation of factions (as much).
Okay, this might be true. However, we can’t just compare snap shots. If Fukuda actually manages to stick around, the real question is whether his actions will be to alter the system in such a way as it favors factions or disfavors them.
We don’t really know, but the first thing Fukuda did was to put some big faction leaders in charge so that should tell you something right away about his intentions.
So, it’s correct that the old LDP are not back, but certainly Fukuda is throwing the old system a life preserver and at the very least keeping the dream alive.