The ruling Liberal Democratic Party on Monday officially readmitted 11 of the lawmakers kicked out of the party last year for opposing postal privatization, its key reform.</PARAGRAPH> <PARAGRAPH>The 'postal reform rebels' submitted a written request seeking readmission to the LDP last week and were welcomed back into the fold by the party's ethics committee with Prime Minister Shinzo Abe's blessing.</PARAGRAPH> <PARAGRAPH>'I expect there may be strong opposition against the –

rejoining the party," Abe told reporters afterward.

He said he would seek the public's understanding by achieving his policy goals with the help of the rebels.

The rebels also submitted a written pledge to adhere to the LDP's campaign promises, including postal privatization, and to obey party rules.

Although 12 lawmakers had sought readmission, former economy and trade minister Takeo Hiranuma's bid was not considered because he did not sign the pledge, which he called "humiliating."