On Friday, Japan’s governing party will select a new leader to replace Fumio Kishida, who resigned in August. The winner will become the country’s next prime minister and is expected to call a snap election. The race is unpredictable due to the break-up of traditional power structures within the Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) following corruption scandals.
Nine candidates are campaigning for the leadership, with significant differences in their approaches to issues such as handling international relations and the economy. The first round of voting will start at 1pm, with the winner expected to hold a news conference at 6pm. The contest may produce Japan’s first woman or youngest-ever prime minister.
Some prominent contenders include Shigeru Ishiba, focusing on security and economic issues; Shinjiro Koizumi, positioning himself as a change candidate with a focus on environment and social issues; Sanae Takaichi, a vocal nationalist with conservative views; Taro Kono, an experienced reformist with a strong presence on social media; Yoko Kamikawa, the current foreign minister entering the race late; and Hayashi Yoshimasa, Kishida’s chief cabinet secretary.
The outcome of the leadership race will have significant implications for Japan’s domestic policies and international relations. Given the unpredictability of the contest, it remains to be seen who will emerge as the next leader of the LDP and the prime minister of Japan.
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