Nine Candidates Compete in Japanese LDP Leadership Race

The race to succeed Prime Minister Fumio Kishida within Japan's ruling Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) has begun, featuring a record nine candidates competing in the election scheduled for September 27. Candidates include Foreign Minister Yoko Kamikawa, who could become Japan's first female prime minister, and prominent figures like former Environment Minister Shinjiro Koizumi and former Defense Minister Shigeru Ishiba. The candidates are addressing various issues, including the need to restore public trust after a political funds scandal and tackling rising household costs and security threats. The election will be critical as the winner is likely to become the next prime minister due to the LDP's majority in parliament. Candidates have shared their visions for Japan, focusing on economic reforms, social security, and enhancing Japan's international standing. The outcome remains uncertain, with a fragmented candidate field potentially complicating the selection process.