Local government in Japan employs a system of dual representation where both members of assemblies and the heads of local governments are directly elected by residents. This system ensures a separation of powers between the head and the assembly of the local government. In recent years, the local assembly is often opposed to the head and there is a friction between local assembly and head of local government. It is, therefore, being argued that we should reconsider the dual representative system. This paper takes such issues into account and examines the role of local assembly. Contehts 1 Introduction 2 Structure of the system of dual representation 3 Problems with the current system of dual representation 4 Reconsideration of the role of local assembly as a deliberative organ