Speculation is rife in Nagata-cho that Prime Minister Yasuo Fukuda may name a new Cabinet early next week.
Every day, reporters ask Fukuda whether he plans to change his Cabinet, and every day he remains silent. But executives of the ruling Liberal Democratic Party are reportedly getting ready for a new lineup as early as next week.
On Wednesday afternoon, LDP Secretary General Bunmei Ibuki met with Fukuda for about 30 minutes at his office. Emerging from the talks, Ibuki hinted that Fukuda may make a final decision Thursday.