Reshuffling the deck

JaneM, I too thought I could "change the world" in Japan when I came here 18 years ago. Nothing has changed, save your energy.

Yeah, but they came prepared for the pomp, didn't they? The need for some people to have their little photo op I find revolting. The desire to lead just to be the leader I also find revolting, and it seems as common as the desire to lead in order to get away with lying and stealing

They're following tradition. As for being a leader, well, yeah, somebody has to tell others what to do. Unless you know any of these people personally how about not judging? That's what I find revolting.

JaneM, I assume you just arrived in Japan?

Well, I do not know how much they will achieve as a cabinet, but hey, isn't it a little early to critisize them? Certainly, it is only too easy to sit in front of the computer and write slamming comments, no?

We are the Men in Black, Galaxy Defenders

They are just puppets, controlled by the hands of big business.

Expect nothing new or any improvements for the population. That is 100% guaranteed.

They're not taking photos of themselves. The media is.

Yeah, but they came prepared for the pomp, didn't they? The need for some people to have their little photo op I find revolting. The desire to lead just to be the leader I also find revolting, and it seems as common as the desire to lead in order to get away with lying and stealing.

A new set of ministers to deceive the public and make everyone pay more taxes while the Japanese officials live it up by means of everyones salary. If you ask me, I think all of these minister should all step down and retire from politics forever. They can never be trusted, Just look at their eyes. Their eyes will show how dishonest they are. The eyes never lie.

Looks like some of them have their eyes closed because of camera flashes.

Why do they feel the need to take this photo?

They're not taking photos of themselves. The media is.

Seriously, they're being dammed even though they've just been just been confirmed in their positions. Sure some the posters here would know just how to set things right.

Average age is about 57, younger than before. Hope to see an Okinawan becomes a Prime Minister someday.

The usual bunch of old duffers. How inspiring!

just put targets on their backs. dead in the water before they start. this is the dog and pony show to appease the LDP so they can get permission to raise our damn taxes!

Happy Feet?

Why do they feel the need to take this photo?

Yaaaaawn, that's it? This is News? Something new??? You mean, a NEW SEQUEL. It's like watching Gilligan Island reruns. Can't they get someone under 80 and NOT on life support?! Neeeeeext!

Welcome to Jurassic Park!!

Reshuffling....with the same deck.

They really look like they are going to a funeral. A same tie, same shoes, same penguin suit, same sad look, same handicap walk. This is called happiness in Japan photo.

They look so fresh, full of the zest of life, brimming with great ideas to help Japan. Just think how in touch they are....with....very rich people, over the age of 70.

And here the Muppet show goes again.

they look like a bunch of real go-getters (not)....

I don't like this deal.

It's the new,new cabinet. Or the new,old cabinet. Or maybe the old,new cabinet...

Too legit... to legit to quit. Too legit to quit. Take the mic AKB...

Why does this pic just make me feel depressed? These are the brave group that are going to lead us on through the economic crisis? At least 5 of them look like they are asleep!

What does J-goverment politician look like? When I conjure such an image, I see instinctively a middle-aged male with short, trimmed hair and a debonair or no smile. The last few years have seen significant strain on this definition, as Japanese citizens broaden this definition actively in terms of expectations. The picture shows obvious examples of struggle for weak goverment to adapt to the reconfiguration of the political landscape.

Here we have a flock of penguins who look....like the dead walking....

Not the most inspiring demonstration of vibrant, charismatic leadership.

Are they all even awake?

Well, how else can they keep their tuxes from getting too dusty... time for a reshuffle and photo on the staircase!

Same old, same old?

This is such a letdown after yesterday's fabulous picture of the day...

again?