Japan's ruling Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) will hold a comprehensive leadership vote on October 4 following Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba's resignation, signaling a pivotal moment for Asia's third-largest economy. The decision to conduct a full-scale election – involving both lawmakers and rank-and-file members – comes amid growing scrutiny over the party's direction after recent parliamentary losses.
Veteran lawmaker Sanae Takaichi and Farm Minister Shinjiro Koizumi, son of former Prime Minister Junichiro Koizumi, emerge as early frontrunners. Both candidates gained recognition during Ishiba's administration, with Koizumi notably addressing Japan's agricultural challenges and rice price stabilization efforts.
The leadership vacuum follows Ishiba's resignation on Sunday, prompted by the ruling coalition's loss of parliamentary majority amid public dissatisfaction with economic management. Analysts suggest the extended election process could allow broader party representation, with at least five candidates expected to compete.
Other notable contenders include former Foreign Minister Toshimitsu Motegi, who formally announced his candidacy Monday, and Chief Cabinet Secretary Yoshimasa Hayashi. The race's outcome will shape Japan's approach to inflation control, agricultural reforms, and regional diplomacy at a time of shifting global economic alliances.
