In a significant political development, Japan’s ruling Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) has chosen former Defense Minister Shigeru Ishiba as its new leader, paving the way for him to become the country’s next Prime Minister.
Ishiba, a defense policy expert, won the party leadership vote, which typically secures the premiership due to the LDP’s parliamentary majority. He has proposed an Asian NATO-style alliance and a more equal Japan-US security partnership.
Ishiba, a supporter of Taiwan’s democracy, also advocates for a disaster management agency in disaster-prone Japan.
The LDP sought fresh leadership amid corruption scandals surrounding outgoing Prime Minister Fumio Kishida. Ishiba’s election aims to restore public trust ahead of potential general elections.
Experts warn that party turmoil may lead to Japan’s return to “revolving door” leadership changes, hindering long-term policy goals and international relations.
On Tuesday, Kishida and his Cabinet will resign, followed by Ishiba’s formal election and Cabinet formation.
The opposition Constitutional Democratic Party of Japan, led by Yoshihiko Noda, may gain momentum with a conservative shift.
