It appears certain that Prime Minister Keizo Obuchi will be re-elected president of the Liberal Democratic Party Sept. 21, which means he will remain at the helm of the government. Although his term as head of the ruling party does not run out until Sept. 20, 2001, whether he will serve out as prime minister depends on political circumstances.
His biggest hurdle will be the general election following the dissolution of the House of Representatives, which is expected shortly after the summit conference of the industrialized nations scheduled for July 20 next year. Whether the Liberal Democrats will retain the present number of seats in the Lower House will determine the destiny of the Obuchi government. If the party fails to win more seats than it has today, Obuchi will be held liable.
The LDP holds 266 seats in the Lower House, excluding Speaker Soichiro Ito. In the previous general election held on Oct. 20, 1996, however, the party won only 239 seats. Subsequently, the number has increased to the present 267 as several independents joined the party.