Japan’s ruling party, the Liberal Democratic Party (LDP), has elected Shigeru Ishiba as its new leader, making him the likely next Prime Minister.
This decision comes after Prime Minister Fumio Kishida announced he would not seek re-election. Ishiba’s leadership marks a significant moment as the party faces serious scandals and internal conflicts that have weakened its power.
In the leadership contest, nine candidates competed, but Ishiba stood out in public opinion polls. The winner was chosen through an internal party vote rather than a public one, and Ishiba’s main opponent was Sanae Takaichi, who aimed to be Japan’s first female leader.
Ishiba has advocated for allowing female emperors, a topic many in the party oppose. Meanwhile, Takaichi has supported traditional roles for women and is more conservative in her views.
The LDP is under pressure to regain public trust after months of political scandals, including ties to Japan’s controversial Unification Church and issues around political funding. These scandals have led to the collapse of many party factions that were once influential.
In addition to scandals, Japan is grappling with economic challenges, such as a weak yen and rising food prices, affecting average families.
This economic strain is fueling dissatisfaction with the LDP. As Mieko Nakabayashi, a political expert, noted, many people are frustrated with inflation and the ongoing economic stagnation known as the “lost 30 years.”
Aging and declining population issues are also pressing concerns for the new leader, as these affect social services and the labor market.
The LDP’s leadership contest is seen as a rehearsal for the upcoming general election, which could happen by October 2025.
Candidates are trying to appeal not only to party members but also to the public, signaling a shift in how politics may evolve in Japan.
Experts believe the changing public sentiment requires the LDP to adapt to new political realities. As Kunihiko Miyake, a political analyst, pointed out, the conservative politics in Japan must adjust to meet the expectations of the electorate.
This leadership change is crucial for Japan’s future, with the new prime minister needing to address both domestic challenges and the party’s reputation.
The upcoming decisions will likely shape Japan’s political landscape for years to come.
This information is based on a report from the BBC.
https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cy89ez894rko