Japan: New leader for social liberals

Japan's main Opposition party has chosen its secretary-general, Yukio Hatoyama, as its new leader.

Lawmakers from the Democratic Party of Japan yesterday elected Hatoyama as leader in a nationally televised vote.

The election was held after the previous party chief Ichiro Ozawa suddenly announced his resignation.

Ozawa quit over a political funding scandal that led to the arrest of one of his chief aides.

The Democrats could make major gains in general elections this year, perhaps even unseating the Government led by the Liberal Democratic Party.

If they take control, Hatoyama will likely become prime minister of the country.