Former Liberal Democratic Party Secretary General Shigeru Ishiba emerged victorious in the LDP presidential election, defeating economic security minister Sanae Takaichi in a runoff. Ishiba, 67, is expected to be nominated as the next prime minister at an extraordinary Diet session on Tuesday. The term for the new LDP president will last until September 30, 2027.
In the runoff held at LDP headquarters, Ishiba secured 215 votes while Takaichi received 194 votes. After winning the election, Ishiba expressed his desire to return to a time when the LDP had free and open discussions and operated with fairness and humility.
During a press conference following his victory, Ishiba hinted at dissolving the House of Representatives for a snap election after assuming office as prime minister. He emphasized the importance of seeking the people’s judgment as soon as possible through talks with opposition parties.
When asked about whether the LDP would officially support lawmakers involved in recent political funds scandals within party factions, Ishiba stated that appropriate decisions would be made by the party’s election strategy headquarters. However, he also stressed that accountability must be fulfilled and that rules must be upheld within the party.
In addition to Ishiba and Takaichi, seven other candidates sought to lead Japan’s ruling party: Shinjiro Koizumi; Takayuki Kobayashi; Yoshimasa Hayashi; Yoko Kamikawa; Katsunobu Kato; Taro Kono; and Toshimitsu Motegi. This was considered one of the largest fields since nominations from party lawmakers became necessary in 1972.
The leadership race followed Prime Minister Fumio Kishida’s decision not to seek reelection for his party presidency. The nine candidates competed for a total of 736 votes from Diet members and rank-and-file members affiliated with various groups.
Ishiba has previously run four times for LDP presidency but called this race his “last battle.” With concerns over politics and money affecting public opinion towards LDP, he gained support from party members due to his national recognition as their new “face” leading up to future lower house elections.
The leadership race took place after five out of six LDP factions dissolved following recent political funds scandals involving these factions. The ruling party hopes that its new president will help reverse their declining popularity.
Ishiba has been elected twelve times to Japan’s lower house parliament and has served in various cabinet positions including defense minister and agriculture, forestry, and fisheries minister. Notably, he does not belong to any specific faction within his political party.
