ABE ON FACEBOOK: Media, political critics analyze prime
minister’s Facebook strategy  July 05, 2013   Attracting more
than 370,000 followers, the Facebook page of Prime Minister
Shinzo Abe has been successful in mixing politics and the new
world of social networking services.  On his page, Abe posts a
picture of him and his wife, Akie, with the message, “I’m going
to Myanmar,” as well as pictures of him at meetings with his
overseas counterparts and at a domestic campaign stop surrounded
by people who are trying to shake his hand.  But all has not
been smooth sailing, with the prime minister also facing
criticism for antagonistic remarks he has made. The Asahi
Shimbun solicited views of Abe's use of the popular social
networking service from two experts on media and politics.   Abe
has succeeded in giving the impression of a politician working
hard for the public through his Facebook page. He also has
avoided posting inappropriate remarks, which would generate
heavy criticism.  His messages represent characte