TOKYO. A record nine candidates are vying to replace outgoing Prime Minister Fumio Kishida in the election for Japan’s ruling Liberal Democratic Party (LDP). Among the top contenders are a former defense minister with years of experience, the son of a former prime minister, and Japan’s economic security minister who could become the country’s first female leader.
With no candidate expected to secure a majority in the first round, a runoff between the top two vote-getters will be held immediately after the initial voting on Friday afternoon.
The Candidates:
Shigeru Ishiba
At 67, Shigeru Ishiba is making his fifth bid for the leadership. A former banker and veteran politician first elected to parliament in 1986, he has served in various key roles, including defense and agriculture minister. Despite his enduring popularity among voters, he has struggled to gain the backing of fellow party lawmakers.
Known for his expertise in defense policy, Ishiba advocates for an “Asian NATO” and aims to strengthen Japan’s disaster management efforts. He is also a vocal supporter of Taiwan’s democracy. Additionally, Ishiba backs progressive reforms, including legalizing same-sex marriage and allowing married couples to retain separate surnames, a change long resisted by conservatives.
“I believe this is my final battle,” Ishiba said, underscoring his resolve in the leadership race.
Shinjiro Koizumi
The 43-year-old son of former Prime Minister Junichiro Koizumi, Shinjiro Koizumi has long been seen as a potential leader despite his relative inexperience. Supported by former Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga, Koizumi has gained attention for his progressive policies, such as promoting paternity leave, which he took after the birth of his child in 2020.
Koizumi’s platform includes labor reforms aimed at creating a more flexible job market, though his proposals have sparked controversy. He has also emphasized strengthening the Japan-U.S. alliance and expanding partnerships with other nations to counter China’s influence.
Despite some missteps, such as his much-criticized comment at a UN summit calling climate change “fun, cool, and sexy,” Koizumi remains a prominent figure in the race.
Sanae Takaichi
At 63, Sanae Takaichi is making her second attempt to become Japan’s first female prime minister. As a close ally of the late former Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, Takaichi represents the conservative wing of the LDP. Her policies focus on bolstering Japan’s military capabilities, fortifying supply chains, and enhancing cyber and space defense.
However, Takaichi’s conservative views—such as opposing same-sex marriage and supporting the male-only succession of the imperial family—have drawn criticism from those who view her stance as detrimental to gender equality.
Takaichi is also known for downplaying Japan’s wartime atrocities, a position that has earned her both support and criticism within the party.
Other Contenders:
- Yoshimasa Hayashi, 63, Chief Cabinet Secretary and Kishida’s confidante, is renowned for his policy expertise.
- Takayuki Kobayashi, 49, a former economic security minister, is seen as a rising star among younger generations.
- Toshimitsu Motegi, 67, LDP Secretary General, has a reputation as a tough negotiator, having previously served as foreign and trade minister.
- Yoko Kamikawa, 71, current Foreign Minister, is known for her advocacy of “women, peace, and security” at the UN.
- Taro Kono, 61, Digital Minister, is a maverick known for his unorthodox views and his recent shift on nuclear energy.
- Katsunobu Kato, 68, a former Health Minister, is closely aligned with Abe’s conservative policies, including plans to double income.
The LDP’s leadership race comes at a critical time for Japan, with rising regional tensions and internal challenges. The new prime minister will need to navigate these complexities while shaping Japan’s domestic and foreign policy for years to come.
The party’s ability to unify behind its next leader will be key as the LDP prepares to face a strong opposition, led by former Prime Minister Yoshihiko Noda of the Constitutional Democratic Party of Japan.
Paraluman P. Funtanilla
Paraluman P. Funtanilla is Tutubi News Magazine's Marketing Specialist and is a Contributing Editor. She finished her degree in Communication Arts in De La Salle Lipa. She has worked as a Digital Marketer for start-up businesses and small business spaces for the past two years. She has earned certificates from Coursera on Brand Management: Aligning Business Brand and Behavior and Viral Marketing and How to Craft Contagious Content. She also worked with Asia Express Romania TV Show.
