Ishin no To (Japan Innovation Party) on Thursday expelled Osaka-based lawmakers who demanded that its leadership split the party in two and divide its political funds accordingly.

The ousted individuals comprise 12 Diet members and 153 local assembly members who are also members of a local party led by Osaka Mayor Toru Hashimoto.

The rift centers on differing views about the party's direction. The Osaka group is willing to cooperate with the administration of Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, whereas Tokyo-based members believe Ishin should link arms with the opposition. Ishin is the nation's second-largest opposition party.