Image Credits: The Japan Times
On September 12, the Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) unveiled the prominent endorsements backing Secretary-General Toshimitsu Motegi in the ongoing race for party president, a position that will determine the successor to Prime Minister Fumio Kishida.
Motegi’s candidacy is supported by a broad coalition of influential figures across various factions within the party. Among the notable supporters from the House of Representatives are Shindo Yoshitaka from Saitama, Azuma Kan of Hokkaido, and Ueda Hidetoshi representing Toyama, all aligned with the Motegi faction. Other significant endorsements include Onishi Hideo from the Abe faction and Kajiyama Hiroshi, who stands as an independent.
Further backing comes from members such as Sasagawa Hiroyoshi of Gunma, Shintani Masayoshi of Hiroshima, and Suzuki Norikazu of Yamagata, all of whom are also affiliated with Motegi’s faction. Additionally, Suzuki Hayato of Tokyo, Takami Yasuhiro of Shimane, and several others from both Motegi’s faction and various proportional representation seats in Kyushu are lending their support.
In the House of Councillors, Motegi’s endorsement extends to figures such as Ueno Michiko from Tochigi and Usui Shoichi from Chiba, representing the Abe and Mogi factions respectively. Kato Akiyoshi of Ibaraki and Nagai Manabu of Yamanashi also add their support, alongside Yamamoto Sachiko of Mie.
This extensive support highlights Motegi’s significant influence and the strategic alliances he has formed within the party. The endorsements reflect a concerted effort from diverse factions, including those historically aligned with Motegi, the Abe faction, and others, positioning him as a formidable contender for the LDP presidency and, by extension, the role of Japan’s next prime minister.
The diverse range of endorsements not only underscores Motegi’s broad appeal within the LDP but also signifies the shifting dynamics within the party as it prepares for a pivotal leadership transition.