Veteran lawmaker Ishiba set to become Japan PM
Former Defence Minister Shigeru Ishiba has emerged victorious in a closely contested leadership race for the ruling Liberal Democratic Party (LDP), positioning him to become Japan’s next prime minister. At 67, Ishiba secured his win against hardline nationalist Sanae Takaichi in a run-off vote, marking his fifth and final attempt to lead the party amid a field of nine candidates—one of the largest in decades.
Ishiba’s election comes as the LDP seeks to stabilize its leadership following outgoing Prime Minister Fumio Kishida’s resignation, triggered by a series of scandals that have significantly damaged the party’s reputation and public support.
In an emotional address to lawmakers after the results, Ishiba emphasized his commitment to the Japanese people: “We must believe in the people, speak the truth with courage and sincerity, and work together to make Japan a safe and secure country where everyone can live with a smile once again.”
As leader of the LDP, Ishiba is poised to take office as prime minister due to the party’s majority in the National Diet. However, he faces immediate challenges, including rising living costs and a complex security landscape in East Asia, characterized by tensions with China and North Korea.
Ishiba’s foreign policy stance will be scrutinized, particularly his call for a more balanced relationship with the United States. He has also advocated for the establishment of an “Asian NATO,” a proposal that has sparked controversy and was recently dismissed by U.S. officials as premature. Nonetheless, U.S. Ambassador to Japan Rahm Emanuel congratulated Ishiba, expressing optimism about strengthening the U.S.-Japan alliance under his leadership.
Entering parliament in 1986 after a brief banking career, Ishiba has been a vocal advocate within the LDP, often at odds with party leadership. His previous attempts to ascend to the party’s top position have been marred by opposition from within, largely due to his contrarian views on issues such as nuclear energy and family surname policies.
With this victory, Ishiba hopes to redefine his legacy and address both domestic and international challenges head-on, after declaring this leadership bid as his “final battle.”
