As the Democratic Party of Japan's presidential election campaign has passed the halfway point, the differences in political style between the two candidates — Prime Minister Naoto Kan and former DPJ Secretary General Ichiro Ozawa — have become clear. On some points, however, they both remain fuzzy.
Mr. Kan appears to favor a setup that takes into account various opinions from within the DPJ before the Cabinet makes a final decision. Mr. Ozawa clearly favors a system in which the Cabinet would monopolize power to make decisions, with the prime minister playing a central role.
Mr. Kan's approach may ensure transparency, but it also may result in slow decision making when speed is required. Mr. Ozawa's approach may fit when the government faces a drastic decision, but it could lead to a dictatorial and arbitrary style.