Former Defence Minister Shigeru Ishiba is poised to become Japan's next prime minister after securing victory in a closely contested Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) leadership election on Friday. This marks the 67-year-old political veteran's fifth and, as he described it, "final attempt" to lead the ruling party.
Ishiba triumphed over hard-line nationalist Sanae Takaichi in a run-off vote, following one of the most unpredictable LDP leadership races in recent history, featuring a record nine candidates. With the LDP holding a parliamentary majority, the party's leader is almost guaranteed to become Japan’s next premier. A special parliamentary session is scheduled for Tuesday to officially confirm Ishiba's appointment.
In an emotional address to LDP lawmakers after his win, Ishiba called for unity and transparency. "We must believe in the people, speak the truth with courage and sincerity, and work together to make Japan a safe and secure country where everyone can live with a smile once again," he said.
The leadership race was triggered in August when outgoing Prime Minister Fumio Kishida announced his resignation amidst multiple scandals that severely damaged the LDP’s public image, sending its approval ratings to historic lows.
Ishiba, known for his independent stance and willingness to criticize party policies, has long been popular with the general public, even though his contrarian views had cost him previous bids for leadership. Reflecting on this, he referred to his victory as his "final battle."
With a general election expected within the next 13 months, Ishiba's popularity among voters appears to have swayed party members who set aside personal grievances to capitalize on his media presence and broad appeal.
"They have gravitated towards a popular figure who does well in media appearances and isn't afraid to criticise his own party when he thinks they're in the wrong," noted Jeffrey Hall, a lecturer at Kanda University of International Studies.
Ishiba’s leadership comes at a pivotal time for Japan, as the nation seeks to recover from recent political turmoil and address economic and security challenges on the global stage.
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