Prime Minister Junichiro Koizumi's policy speech to the Diet last Friday can be summed up in a word: disappointing. It was disappointing particularly because he failed to explain in plain language how he intends to prevent a dangerous economic downturn. People know first hand that things are getting worse, yet the prime minister's speech was couched mostly in bureaucratic language, calling his leadership into question.

It is true that Mr. Koizumi has regained popularity since his groundbreaking visit to North Korea last month. His handling of the economy is another matter. In the absence of a candid and clear message from him, many people are beginning to think that his "no pain, no gain" reform agenda is fading further into the background. He needs to speak his mind in his own words.

The speech, delivered at the outset of an extraordinary Diet session, sounded monotonous. Above all, it lacked both a sense of crisis and a determination to solve the country's problems. Instead of honestly telling the people how the economy is doing and what obstacles stand in the way of recovery, the prime minister emphasized in a matter-of-fact manner that he will stick to his reform plans. The public, however, is not convinced, sensing that Mr. Koizumi is changing tack without saying so.