The governing party of outgoing Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida is set to hold a crucial vote on Friday to determine the country's new national leader. The vote, limited to the Liberal Democratic Party's parliamentarians and dues-paying members, will ultimately decide Japan's next prime minister due to the party's dominance in parliament.
A record nine candidates, including two women, are competing in this unpredictable race. With no candidate expected to secure a majority in the initial round, a runoff between the top two contenders will likely determine the winner.
The election process has undergone changes, with the dissolution of most powerful factions within the LDP following corruption scandals. This shift could lead to a return to a period of political instability akin to the early 2000s, characterized by frequent leadership changes.
The new prime minister will face challenges in regaining public trust and implementing long-term policy goals. The leader will also need to address pressing issues such as military expenditures, childcare, and climate change costs.
The election features nine candidates, all incumbent or former Cabinet ministers. Former Defense Minister Shigeru Ishiba leads in media surveys, followed by Environment Minister Shinjiro Koizumi and Economic Security Minister Sanae Takaichi.
Two female candidates, Sanae Takaichi and Foreign Minister Yoko Kamikawa, are vying to become Japan's first female prime minister. However, the final decision rests with senior male party members.
Following the election, the new prime minister will form a Cabinet after receiving parliamentary endorsement. Most candidates intend to call for an early election to capitalize on a fresh image and address recent scandals within the LDP.
The main opposition, the Constitutional Democratic Party of Japan, has made gains in local elections but faces challenges in unifying against the LDP. Observers doubt the opposition's ability to attract voters seeking an alternative to the ruling party.
