Shigeru Ishiba: Japan's New PM After LDP Leadership Win

LDP Leadership Election Results

• Shigeru Ishiba won the Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) leadership election
• Secured 215 votes against Sanae Takaichi's 194 votes in the runoff
• The election was one of the most unpredictable in decades, with a record nine candidates
• Ishiba's victory came in his fifth and final attempt to lead the LDP
• As LDP leader, Ishiba is set to become Japan's next prime minister

Shigeru Ishiba's Background and Policies

• 67-year-old veteran lawmaker and former defense minister
• Known for his interest in military equipment and plain-spoken opinions
• Supports some progressive policies, including allowing married couples to use separate surnames
• Has previously challenged party leaders, sometimes courting controversy
• Emphasizes his experience in addressing challenging social issues, including agricultural reforms
• Calls for a "fairer and kinder Japan"

Political Context and Challenges

• Ishiba replaces outgoing Prime Minister Fumio Kishida
• Kishida resigned due to low approval ratings, public dissatisfaction with inflation, and political finance scandals
• The new leader faces domestic challenges, including anger over rising living costs
• Must navigate a volatile security environment in East Asia, dealing with an assertive China and nuclear-armed North Korea
• The LDP has governed Japan almost uninterrupted for decades
• Kishida's tenure saw efforts to double Japan's defense spending and open doors for military exports
• Improved relations with South Korea and hosted Ukrainian President Zelensky at G7 summit in Hiroshima