JCP holds rally to secure victory in Upper House election

   The Japanese Communist Party held a national rally on June 23 at its head office to secure its victory in the House of Councilors election scheduled for July 29.

   JCP Chair Shii Kazuo made an hour-long report which, aired live via the communication satellite system, was watched by 14,000 JCP members across the country.

   Shii criticized the ruling parties for having extended the Diet session and postponing the House of Councilors election to forcibly enact adverse bills with the aim of serving their own interests. At the same time, stressing that the JCP has more time than before to go on the offensive and canvass for votes, Shii called on the whole party to drastically increase election activities in order to gain a victory.

   Shii emphasized two key aspect in the election campaign.

   The JCP, first of all, has proved its value as the only reliable opposition party on every issue, including the pension problem, the increasing poverty and social gaps, and plans for adverse constitutional revision.

   “This is a situation in which the JCP can win,” he said. But he also pointed out that any situation, however favorable it may be, will not automatically bring about a victory for the JCP.

   Shii warned that amid the strong influence of the argument favoring the “two-party system” over the general public, the JCP could lose in the election if it fails to drastically increase its activities.

   Shii called on all JCP branches and members as well as committees at all levels and local assembly members to put all their energies into the campaign in order to make progress in the short period of time before elections.

   Shii said that if the party succeeds in fully mobilizing party members and carry out what needs to be done, the JCP will win without fail.

       - Akahata, June 25, 2007