Shigeru Ishiba Plans Lower House Election for October 27

Shigeru Ishiba, newly elected president of Japan's ruling Liberal Democratic Party (LDP), is expected to call a snap election for the Lower House on October 27, with the campaign period commencing on October 15. Ishiba, set to be confirmed as prime minister on October 1, aims to swiftly seek public support following his leadership win, amidst concerns from opposition parties advocating for more thorough parliamentary debate. His leadership comes in the wake of a fundraising scandal that has impacted the LDP, and he is looking to rejuvenate the party’s image. The main opposition, now under former Prime Minister Yoshihiko Noda, is scrambling to respond to Ishiba's rapid electoral move. Additionally, Ishiba is forming a senior leadership team, likely including former Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga and other notable figures, to bolster his campaign efforts. Observers believe Ishiba's intention for an early election may reflect a strategy to capitalize on his recent victory and minimize the opposition's preparation time.