Toshimitsu Motegi Announces LDP Leadership Candidacy

Toshimitsu Motegi, the secretary general of Japan's ruling Liberal Democratic Party (LDP), has announced his candidacy for the LDP presidency, which is expected to lead to the position of prime minister. His campaign will officially start on September 12, with the election scheduled for September 27. Motegi, who has served in various key government roles, emphasized his commitment to creating a stable government focused on results, promising no tax hikes and a strategy to combat deflation within six months. He also pledged to abolish political activity funds and ensure transparency in political financing. This marks Motegi's first bid for party leadership and he joins a competitive field of candidates, including Chief Cabinet Secretary Yoshimasa Hayashi and Digital Minister Taro Kono. His campaign aims to rebuild voter trust following a recent political funds scandal that has affected the party's reputation.