Main opposition party CDP begins leadership competition.

Excitement is building within the Constitutional Democratic Party of Japan (CDP) as four members have officially filed their candidacies for the upcoming leadership election on September 23rd. The candidates vying for the top spot include former Prime Minister Yoshihiko Noda, former party leader Yukio Edano, current chief Kenta Izumi, and Lower House lawmaker Harumi Yoshida.

The main focus of the election revolves around the party’s cooperation with other opposition forces like the Nippon Ishin no Kai and the Japanese Communist Party, as anticipation grows for a snap general election possibly happening this autumn. The CDP aims to challenge the ruling bloc led by the Liberal Democratic Party and take the reins of power.

During a joint news conference, the candidates expressed their visions for the party’s future, with Noda emphasizing the impending shift in leadership and the opportunity to seize power. Edano highlighted the need to build trust and create a new government option, while Izumi spoke of his accomplishments and the goal of a stable government. Yoshida focused on bringing a sense of renewal to politics, breaking free from traditional norms.

As the race heats up, former CDP Deputy President Kenji Eda has thrown his support behind Yoshida, adding an unexpected twist to the contest before Izumi’s term expires at the end of the month.