Japan’s Prime Minister Junichiro Koizumi on Monday denied speculation he will hold a general election this year to stave off opposition within his ruling party.
Koizumi told a New Year's press conference that he did not need the snap poll to contain elements within the ruling Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) that are reluctant to follow his reform program to revive the ailing economy.
"I have no plans to dissolve (the Lower House)," the Prime Minister said of the more powerful chamber of Japan's bicameral parliament, according to AFP.
"In September, my term as the president of the Liberal Democratic Party will end. I know there is speculation that I might dissolve (the parliament) and entwine the issue with the next election for the party presidency.
"I have no such intention," he made clear. (Albawaba.com)
© 2003 Al Bawaba (www.albawaba.com)
