Junichiro Koizumi Elected Japan's Premier by Lower HouseLiberal Democratic Party (LDP) President Junichiro Koizumi was elected Japan's prime minister in a vote in the House of Representatives on Thursday afternoon.Koizumi's victory in the lower house poll ensures him the nation's top job because the lower house election result stands even if the House of Councillors, the upper house of parliament, chooses a different candidate. Koizumi, 59, clinched a stunning victory in Tuesday's LDP presidential election, garnering widespread support among rank-and-file LDP members with promises of reform and change, including an end to power politics by LDP factions. The former health and welfare minister is expected to unveil the lineup of his cabinet later in the day. The announcement will be followed by a news conference by members of the new cabinet and an attestation ceremony at the Imperial Palace. |
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