Image Credits: BBC
The Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) has set September 27 as the date for its upcoming presidential election to select a successor to Prime Minister Fumio Kishida. The decision, finalized on Tuesday, establishes a 15-day campaign period, the longest since the current electoral rules were instituted in 1995.
The extended campaign, beginning on September 12, is intended to reinvigorate the party’s image and address trust issues stemming from recent scandals involving breaches of the Political Funds Control Law by various party factions. By extending the debate period, the LDP aims to foster more comprehensive policy discussions and demonstrate a commitment to transparency and reform.
Historically, LDP presidential campaigns have spanned approximately 12 days. However, given the party’s current challenges and ongoing public scrutiny, there has been considerable advocacy for a longer campaign to enable more thorough vetting of candidates and their platforms.
As Prime Minister Kishida’s term nears its conclusion on September 30, the upcoming election will be critical in shaping the future direction of the party. The electoral process will involve a total of 734 votes, split equally between Diet members and rank-and-file party members, with the possibility of a runoff if no candidate secures a majority in the initial round.
Kishida, addressing the party’s Board on Tuesday, emphasized the significance of a transparent and vigorous election process. “The presidential election itself will reflect the character of the new LDP. I hope it will be marked by serious, public debate,” he stated.
With over ten lawmakers signaling their intention to run, the race is shaping up to be competitive. Notably, former economic security minister Takayuki Kobayashi, 49, has officially declared his candidacy, while former LDP Secretary General Shigeru Ishiba, 67, is expected to announce his bid soon. On Tuesday morning, Kobayashi actively sought support by visiting lawmaker offices in Tokyo’s Nagatacho district.
The upcoming election marks a pivotal moment for the LDP as it navigates internal challenges and seeks to reassert its position in Japanese politics.