Osaka Mayor Toru Hashimoto, who also serves as senior advisor to Ishin no To (Japan Innovation Party), has expressed interest in forming an all-Kansai political party as early as September, which could split the party into eastern and western Japan factions.

At a meeting of his local party, Osaka Ishin no Kai (One Osaka) on Saturday evening, Hashimoto told the membership he has always been ready to form a Kansai-based national political party.

Several participants, speaking anonymously, said Monday it was still unclear who among current Ishin no To Diet members as well as local assembly members, especially from Osaka, would participate. A fundraising event for Osaka Ishin members is scheduled for Sept. 15, where a new group called Kansai Ishin no To may be formally announced.