Dawn Party breakaway MPs say leader was aware of new strategy plans

Breakaway members of parliament from the Dawn Party have defended themselves against accusations they are putschists. In a press conference on Wednesday they said they had drawn up plans for a new direction of the party with full knowledge of leader, Tomio Okamura, but he did not want to accept the plans. Members of parliament accused Okuma of trying to rule the party in an authoritarian manner and prevent it opening up to new members. Ten of the party’s 14 members of parliament declared on Tuesday that they would follow the new strategy in defiance of Okamura. They said though they were still willing to meet with him to discuss the situation.

Author: Chris Johnstone