The Liberal Democratic Party¡¯s longtime partner Komeito aired its concerns over the LDP¡¯s new chief during a meeting between their respective executives on Tuesday afternoon, protracting discussions on a new coalition agreement.

Following Sanae Takaichi¡¯s election as LDP president Saturday, Komeito leader Tetsuo Saito openly questioned her suitability as the leader of the coalition.

¡°We have reached a degree of understanding on certain issues, but we¡¯ll continue our discussions,¡± Saito told reporters after the meeting Tuesday.