Japan’s Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) is set to choose a new leader on Friday, replacing Fumio Kishida who resigned in August. The winner will become the country’s next prime minister, with most analysts predicting a snap election to secure a mandate from voters.
The record-breaking nine candidates have made the outcome difficult to predict due to the break-up of the LDP’s usual power structures caused by corruption scandals. Many candidates have emphasized their ability to handle international relations with the US and China.
Among the prominent contenders are Shigeru Ishiba, a former defense minister focusing on security issues and rural depopulation; Shinjiro Koizumi, a younger candidate advocating for renewable energy and social issues; Sanae Takaichi, a nationalist and potential first woman prime minister; Taro Kono, an outspoken reformist with ministerial experience; Yoko Kamikawa, a veteran foreign minister; and Hayashi Yoshimasa, Kishida’s former chief cabinet secretary.
The candidates have various backgrounds and policy stances, making this election the most unpredictable in years. The first round of voting will start at 1 pm with the winner expected to hold a press conference around 6 pm. The contest has the potential to produce Japan’s first woman or youngest-ever prime minister.
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