Japan LDP Plans Leadership Vote as Motegi Seeks Candidacy

Japan's ruling Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) is preparing for a leadership race following Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba's announcement that he will step down. Former Foreign Minister Toshimitsu Motegi has declared his intention to run for the party presidency, aiming to leverage his experience to serve the country. Ishiba's resignation comes amid significant electoral setbacks for the LDP, including losing its majority in both the House of Councillors and the House of Representatives, marking a historic low for the party since its founding. Discussions are underway within the LDP regarding the format of the leadership election, with some members advocating for broader participation from rank-and-file members to help restore the party. The party's coalition partner and opposition emphasize the urgency of addressing pressing issues like high consumer prices without prolonged political uncertainty. Other potential candidates, including former Economic Security Minister Kobayashi Takayuki and former Economic Security Minister Takaichi Sanae, are also considering running to unify veteran and younger party members.