Image Credits: The Japan Times
In a development that could significantly impact the outcome of the upcoming Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) presidential election, the Aso faction has chosen not to unify behind a single candidate. Despite internal support for Digital Minister Taro Kono, the faction’s approach to the election remains fragmented.
During a faction training session in Yokohama on August 27, Aso faction head and LDP Vice President Taro Aso expressed his personal support for Kono, emphasizing their shared history and camaraderie. “I want to support Mr. Kono as a comrade, as I grew up eating from the same pot,” Aso remarked. However, he also made it clear that he does not intend to enforce strict alignment within the faction, likening the approach to avoiding a restrictive “Unity and Solidarity (box) lunchbox.”
This decision means that the Aso faction, consisting of 54 members, will permit support for other candidates in the race. Potential alternative endorsements within the faction include former Minister of Economic Security Takayuki Kobayashi, former Environment Minister Shinjiro Koizumi, and Foreign Minister Yoko Kamikawa. Aso indicated that if the faction supports a candidate other than Kono, it should be based on individual beliefs and convictions.
Kono, who is contesting the LDP leadership for the third time, faces a challenging situation as his campaign struggles to gain traction in opinion polls. The faction’s reluctance to consolidate behind him could further undermine his bid for leadership. In response, Kono is intensifying efforts to appeal to undecided lawmakers both within and outside his faction.
The Aso faction’s previous approach in the 2021 LDP presidential election similarly involved supporting multiple candidates and refraining from a unified coalition. Given the crowded field of contenders this year, a runoff election appears increasingly likely. Aso is anticipated to seek a unified stance from his faction if the race progresses to this stage.
Approximately 50 faction lawmakers attended the recent training session, and Aso concluded with a hopeful note, expressing a desire for the faction to reunite after the election concludes. As the LDP presidential election approaches, the Aso faction’s divided support could have far-reaching implications for the party’s leadership and future direction.