The nation*s second-largest opposition party may be on the verge of vanishing as rebellious members, who hold the party*s official stamp and bankbook, threaten procedures to legally disband Ishin no To (Japan Innovation Party).

Osaka-based Ishin members, led by Osaka Mayor Toru Hashimoto, have recently been ousted from the party. They are now preparing the launch of a new national party called Osaka Ishin no Kai on Oct. 31.

The Osaka group argues that their expulsion is invalid, and are preparing to hold what they call a party convention on Saturday, at which they intend to disband Ishin no To.