Shigeru Ishiba Named Japan's New Prime Minister

Shigeru Ishiba was officially elected as Japan's new prime minister on Tuesday, securing a majority in both houses of parliament during an extraordinary Diet session. He immediately unveiled a new Cabinet consisting of 13 first-time appointees, including key positions like Katsunobu Kato as finance minister and Yoshimasa Hayashi as chief cabinet secretary. Ishiba, who aims to restore public trust in the Liberal Democratic Party following recent scandals, is planning a snap election on October 27. His administration will focus on pressing issues such as rising living costs, a sluggish economy, and foreign relations, particularly in balancing ties with the United States and addressing China's influence in the region. The Cabinet includes only two women, reflecting a decrease in female representation compared to previous administrations. Ishiba's proposed initiatives, including an Asian NATO, have already drawn mixed reactions, highlighting the challenges he faces domestically and internationally.