A record nine Japanese lawmakers have officially entered the race to succeed Prime Minister Fumio Kishida as the head of the governing party and leader of Japan. The move comes as the nation aims to regain public support following recent corruption scandals within the government.
The Liberal Democratic Party leadership contest, scheduled for September 27, will see voting limited to lawmakers and 1 million dues-paying grassroots members. The winner of the contest is guaranteed to become the next prime minister due to the governing coalition's dominance in parliament.
Japan's increasing role in regional security, economics, and diplomacy in response to threats from China, North Korea, and Russia is a key focus of the upcoming leadership transition.
Prime Minister Kishida, who assumed office in 2021 and supported a rapid military buildup and doubling of defense spending, announced his decision to step down last month to allow a new leader to address the fallout from the corruption scandals.
The nine candidates, including two women, are vying for the top position. With the large number of candidates, it is anticipated that no one will secure a majority in the initial round of voting, likely leading to a runoff.
Several candidates have emphasized their commitment to implementing reforms and addressing critical issues such as Japan's declining birthrate, stagnant incomes, gender inequality, and security challenges.
Former Defense Minister Shigeru Ishiba highlighted the need to protect Japan and proposed the establishment of an Asian equivalent of NATO to address security threats in the region.
Environment Minister Shinjiro Koizumi, a prominent contender and son of former Prime Minister Junichiro Koizumi, pledged to modernize Japan and accelerate reforms, including advocating for married women to retain their maiden names.
Digital Minister Taro Kono stressed the importance of Japan playing a more active role in regional security beyond its reliance on the United States for protection.
Foreign Minister Yoko Kamikawa, aiming to become Japan's first female prime minister, emphasized the progress represented by her candidacy in signaling a new era for the Liberal Democratic Party.
The leadership contest marks a departure from traditional power struggles among faction leaders, with reforms introduced by Kishida paving the way for a more diverse range of candidates, including younger lawmakers, to participate in the race.
Other candidates in the running include Economic Security Minister Sanae Takaichi, former Economic Security Minister Takayuki Kobayashi, Chief Cabinet Secretary Yoshimasa Hayashi, party Secretary-General Toshimitsu Motegi, and former Health Minister Katsunobu Kato.
Beginning Thursday, the candidates will engage in nationwide campaigning to connect with party supporters and take part in joint speech and debate sessions in Tokyo.
