Image Credits: CNBC
Former Environment Minister Shinjiro Koizumi is leading the race for the Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) presidency, according to recent media surveys. With the election set for September 27, Koizumi has garnered significant support among lawmakers and party members, positioning himself ahead of other candidates.
As of September 20, the Mainichi Shimbun reported that Koizumi has secured the backing of over 50 of the 368 Diet members. His nearest competitors are former Minister of Economic Security Takayuki Kobayashi and Chief Cabinet Secretary Yoshimasa Hayashi. The Sankei Shimbun’s survey corroborates this, indicating that Koizumi also leads in support from LDP members, as assessed through opinion polls targeting party supporters.
The Nihon Keizai Shimbun further details the competitive landscape, noting that when combining support from lawmakers and party members, Koizumi finds himself in a close race with former Secretary-General Shigeru Ishiba and Minister of State for Economic Security Sanae Takaichi. The fragmentation of party factions has led to a crowded field of candidates, complicating the voting dynamics.
With multiple candidates vying for leadership, experts predict that the first round of voting may not yield a definitive winner. Mainichi, Sankei, and Nikkei outlets emphasize the likelihood of a runoff, suggesting that the votes could be significantly split among the various candidates.
Koizumi’s current momentum and broad support could play a pivotal role as the LDP prepares for the election. As the political landscape continues to evolve, all eyes will be on how this competitive race unfolds in the coming days. The outcome will not only influence the direction of the LDP but also shape Japan’s political future as the party seeks to address key challenges ahead.