Scandal claims Mori supporter, but PM undeterred

Mori opponents believe the arrest could pave the way for a no-confidence vote

In this story: 'Mandate from heaven' Speculation rife RELATED STORIES, SITES

TOKYO, Japan -- Japan's embattled Prime Minister Yoshiro Mori suffered yet another political blow on Thursay, with the arrest of a former ruling party powerbroker.

Masakuni Murakami, one of a "Gang of Four" in the Liberal Democratic Party, was picked up on suspicion of bribery. He had supported Mori for the top job last year.

Officials believe Murakami accepted bribes worth about $615,000 from KSD, a scandal-tainted foundation.

Analysts believe the arrest could pave the way for Japan's opposition parties to push for a no-confidence motion against Mori, who is seen as one of the most unpopular prime ministers in the country's recent history.

'Mandate from heaven'

Political turmoil and low popularity ratings have not deterred Mori from staying in power.

"Keeping in mind every day that I receive warm encouragements and rebukes from people of all walks of life, I would like to make a wise decision on what I should do as a politician," Mori told the Lower House budget committee.

"It isn't as if I can ask someone to take my place just because I have achieved one thing. It is a mandate from heaven for me to make efforts day by day," he said.

Mori's comments sparked speculation that he was hinting to resign after parliament passes the budget for the coming fiscal year from April.

Speculation rife

However, he later told reporters that his comment had nothing to do with any kind of resignation talk.

"It had nothing to do with that," Kyodo news agency quoted Mori as saying. "I was talking about policies."

Pundits and media have feverishly been speculating scenarios for Mori's exit, including an early bet that saw him bowing out as early as on Friday, when the budget for the fiscal year from April 1 will be passed by the Lower House.

However, the scenario has been losing favor due to an apparent lack of consensus over who should succeed him.

Another speculation has also emerged that Mori could linger until mid-April, when other budget-related bills will be enacted.

The Associated Press & Reuters contributed to this report.

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