Former Japanese Defence Minister Shigeru Ishiba has won the leadership of Japan’s ruling Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) in a closely contested election and is set to become the country’s next prime minister, Reuters reports.
Ishiba, 67, defeated hard-line nationalist Sanae Takaichi in a runoff vote. This victory positions him to become Japan’s next prime minister as the LDP holds a parliamentary majority, with a special session scheduled for Tuesday to confirm his appointment. Ishiba’s appointment comes after the resignation of former Prime Minister Fumio Kishida, following scandals that harmed the LDP’s public image.
Ishiba emphasized the need for honesty and unity to ensure a safe and secure Japan in his victory speech. He faces significant challenges, including rising living costs, public discontent regarding party scandals, and security concerns from China and North Korea. His foreign policy stance, including the idea of an Asian NATO, has drawn both interest and criticism.
