I am shy, withdrawn and not good at speaking. Kan can ably explain to the public in a manner in which they can understand.

I'm shy at public speaking, which is tough.

The election was one in which voters gave their verdict on the frayed Koizumi administration.

Once a politician says a nation is a 'threat' to the Japanese people, then something must be done to remove that threat. That is why not even the prime minister has mentioned (such a threat).

We have only one goal: We will force the ruling coalition to a minority status in next year's upper house election. With this momentum, we will realize a change of power.

I feel great responsibility when I consider the tasks ahead - the renewal of our party and our road to power.