Former Japanese Environment Minister Shinjiro Koizumi has revealed that he will announce his candidacy for the ruling Liberal Democratic Party’s (LDP) upcoming presidential election on September 6. Originally, Koizumi had planned to make the announcement on Friday, but due to the approaching Typhoon Shanshan, he decided to change his plans. Many members within the LDP are hopeful that Koizumi, a young and well-known lawmaker, will take charge of the party, especially with an anticipated election of the House of Representatives in mind.
Former Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga, who holds influence over LDP lawmakers not affiliated with any specific party faction, is expected to support Koizumi in his bid for presidency. On the other hand, Chief Cabinet Secretary Yoshimasa Hayashi has announced his intention to run in the LDP election and plans to make an official announcement on Tuesday.
So far, more than 10 names have been suggested as potential candidates for the LDP presidential election. Among them are former economic security minister Takayuki Kobayashi (49), former LDP Secretary-General Shigeru Ishiba (67), and digital transformation minister Taro Kono (61), who have already declared their bids. Economic security minister Sanae Takaichi (63) is planning to make a similar announcement in the second half of next week while Secretary-General Toshimitsu Motegi (68) is likely to declare his candidacy in early September.
The race for leadership within Japan’s ruling party is heating up as various politicians throw their hats into the ring. With multiple contenders vying for position and support from influential figures like Suga and Hayashi at stake, it remains uncertain who will emerge as victor in this highly anticipated election.