Japan’s former economic security minister Takayuki Kobayashi announced his candidacy in the ruling party’s presidential election, aiming to succeed Prime Minister Fumio Kishida. Kobayashi, a Harvard-educated ex-Finance Ministry official, has garnered support from young members seeking to revamp the Liberal Democratic Party’s tainted image post a slush funds scandal.
With Kishida not seeking reelection, the party is gearing up for change under new leadership. Kobayashi, expressing his vision for a reformed LDP and a hopeful society, emphasized Japan’s potential to lead globally. Despite concerns about his age and voter recognition, Kobayashi emphasized the party’s commitment to transformation and non-factional dynamics.
The upcoming election is expected to feature around 10 candidates, with notable contenders like former Defense Minister Shigeru Ishiba and rising stars like Shinjiro Koizumi and Taro Kono. Potential candidates from Kishida’s Cabinet, including Foreign Minister Yoko Kamikawa and Chief Cabinet Secretary Yoshimasa Hayashi, are also in the mix.
As the LDP prepares for its leadership race, the new leader will inevitably become Japan’s next PM due to the ruling coalition’s parliamentary majority. With Kishida facing challenges, the race promises to be a dynamic and critical event in shaping Japan’s political landscape.
© KYODO
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