June 1, 2010
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Pressure is mounting against Prime Minister Yukio Hatoyama after the withdrawal of the Social Democratic Party from the governing coalition over the relocation of a US base in Okinawa.
Hatoyama spoke to reporters on Monday after meeting with Democratic Party Secretary General Ichiro Ozawa and its Upper House caucus chairman Azuma Koshiishi.
The prime minister told reporters that the 3 leaders agreed to work together for the country and the people, and to ride out the tough political situation. Hatoyama said they also agreed that he should retain his post.
Earlier, Chief Cabinet Secretary Hirofumi Hirano said Hatoyama should do his utmost to win public support and fight the upcoming Upper House election.But criticism of Hatoyama is growing, even among his party executives, over his handling of the base relocation, the SDP departure, and his falling approval rating.
Senior party official Yoshimitsu Takashima told reporters that he expects Hatoyama to make the right decision, indicating he will seek Hatoyama's voluntary resignation.
Secretary General Ozawa and Upper House caucus chief Koshiishi are expected to meet Hatoyama again on Tuesday to convey the tough party situation.
2010/06/01 07:36(JST)
(JST: UTC+9hrs.)
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