Nine candidates compete to succeed Prime Minister Kishida in Japan's ruling party election.

The election comes at a critical juncture for the LDP, as it seeks to regain public support following scandals that have marred Kishida’s administration. Among the candidates, Ishiba is recognized for his experience and policy expertise, while Koizumi, the son of a former prime minister, brings a youthful perspective but faces scrutiny over his lack of experience. Takaichi stands out as the only female candidate, advocating for conservative policies but also facing criticism for her views on gender roles. With no candidate expected to secure a majority in the first round, a runoff between the top two contenders is likely, making the outcome pivotal for Japan’s future governance and its approach to pressing issues such as military spending and climate change.

Key Candidates

• Shigeru Ishiba: A veteran politician and former defense minister, Ishiba is known for his strong defense policy proposals and advocacy for gender equality. Despite his popularity among voters, he has struggled to garner support from party lawmakers.

• Shinjiro Koizumi: The son of a popular former prime minister, Koizumi is seen as a fresh face in politics. He supports reforms for more career choices and has made headlines for promoting paternity leave. However, his lack of experience has raised concerns.

• Sanae Takaichi: As the economic security minister, Takaichi is a conservative candidate aiming to strengthen Japan’s resilience to security risks. If elected, she would be the first female prime minister, but her traditional views on gender roles have drawn criticism.

Election Process

The election will involve LDP lawmakers and grassroots members, with a first-round vote expected to occur on Friday afternoon. If no candidate achieves a majority, the top two will proceed to a runoff. The outcome of this leadership election will not only determine Kishida’s successor but also set the tone for Japan’s political direction in the coming years, especially in light of the opposition’s recent gains and the need for stable governance.