Tough times ahead for Japan’s Noda, say analysts ANALYSIS 08/31/2011

Tough times ahead for Japan’s Noda, say analysts

ANALYSIS

08/31/2011
TOKYO — New Premier Yoshihiko Noda faces a struggle to stop Japan’s revolving door of political leadership, analysts warn, jeopardizing his chances of tackling the world’s biggest debt burden.

The hawkish finance minister replaced Naoto Kan as prime minister Tuesday to become the nation’s sixth new leader in five years after the ruling Democratic Party of Japan chose him as its new president over rival Banri Kaieda.

Noda, who likens himself to a marine bottom-feeder rather than a glittering goldfish, has stressed his credentials as a responsible, moderate and middle-of-the road leader at a time of national crisis.

But there is skepticism that will be enough, with his immediate priority the passing of a third budget to pay for post-March 11 quake reconstruction as he looks to revive an economy that has contracted for three straight quarters..... MORE

Source:  The Daily Tribune

URL: http://www.tribuneonline.org/commentary/20110831com3.html