OSAKA — Position Wanted: Popular and well-known public figure with an interest in local politics. Must have the ability to skillfully negotiate with central government bureaucrats and have good relations with the local business community.
The preferred candidate will love "takoyaki" octopus dumplings, "manzai" standup comedy and the Hanshin Tigers. Yomiuri Giants fans need not apply.
One week after Osaka Gov. Fusae Ohta announced she would not seek a third term, the Liberal Democratic Party-New Komeito ruling coalition and the Democratic Party of Japan, the main opposition force, are searching for willing candidates to run in the Jan. 27 election to replace her.