Image Credits: www.asahi.com
Former LDP Secretary General Shigeru Ishiba is set to announce his bid for the presidency later this week, while former Economic Security Minister Takayuki Kobayashi has already thrown his hat into the ring, becoming the first to officially enter the contest.
Speaking to reporters in Tokyo on Sunday, Ishiba, 67, confirmed that he is actively seeking endorsements from at least 20 LDP lawmakers, a prerequisite for running in the upcoming election. Ishiba, who has previously vied for the presidency on four occasions, is preparing to make a formal announcement in his hometown of Tottori once he finalizes the support required.
In a noteworthy development, Kobayashi, 49, declared his candidacy on Monday during a press conference at the Diet building. Emphasizing his commitment to revitalizing the LDP, Kobayashi vowed to lead the party through transformative changes. “I am prepared to run in the LDP presidential election,” he stated, promising a renewed vision for the party. His announcement comes amidst a growing field of candidates, each vying for leadership in a period of significant political flux.
The potential candidates are numerous, with over ten LDP members expressing interest in the top post. Former Environment Minister Shinjiro Koizumi, 43, has hinted at a possible run, while Economic Security Minister Sanae Takaichi, 63, and Foreign Minister Yoko Kamikawa, 71, have both signaled their intentions to compete. Economy, Trade, and Industry Minister Ken Saito, 65, is also considering his options, responding positively to the encouragement he has received.
The LDP is expected to finalize the election date at a meeting on Tuesday, with September 27 being the favored choice. This timing allows Prime Minister Fumio Kishida to attend the U.N. General Assembly, which begins on September 24, before the election. The campaign period will span 15 days, starting from September 12, an extension from the traditional 12-day period to facilitate broader policy discussions among the candidates.
As the election date approaches, the race for the LDP presidency is set to become a focal point of Japanese politics, with candidates positioning themselves to address the party’s challenges and set the direction for its future leadership.