Shigeru Ishiba has emerged victorious in the leadership election of Japan’s governing Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) and is poised to become the country’s next prime minister.
The former defense minister, aged 67, secured the position on Friday, defeating Economic Security Minister Sanae Takaichi, 63, in a closely contested run-off after no candidate achieved a majority in the first round of voting earlier that day.
The resignation of Prime Minister Fumio Kishida in August, amid multiple corruption scandals within the LDP - the largest party in parliament - set the stage for the leadership contest.
Given the party's majority in the legislature, the winner of the leadership race is expected to be formally elected as the 65th prime minister by parliament on October 1.
In his first remarks to lawmakers, Ishiba expressed his commitment to fostering a fairer and kinder Japan, becoming emotional as he acknowledged the final results.
"I will do my utmost to believe in the people, to speak the truth with courage and sincerity, and to make this country a safe and secure place where everyone can live with a smile on their face once again," he stated.
Ishiba’s campaign heavily emphasised security issues. He has indicated intentions to increase oversight of U.S. military operations in Japan and is regarded as a defense expert.
He has proposed establishing an Asian-style NATO and is likely to adopt a more assertive stance for Japan on the international stage.
Following the election results, China’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs expressed a desire to improve relations with Japan, emphasising the importance of stable bilateral ties. Ministry spokesman Lin Jian stated, "It’s the only appropriate choice."
As a supporter of Taiwan’s democracy, Ishiba’s election is anticipated to strengthen ties with Taiwan, with President William Lai Ching-te expressing hope for deepening relations with the LDP.
LDP presidents serve three-year terms and can be re-elected for up to three consecutive terms. The LDP has maintained governance in Japan for decades, often overshadowing opposition parties.
Ishiba faces pressing regional security challenges, including an increasingly assertive China, deepening defense ties with Russia, and North Korea’s missile tests.
Domestically, he must revitalise the economy as the central bank shifts away from years of monetary easing that devalued the yen.
The yen rebounded on Friday after Ishiba’s victory, as he is perceived as a critic of past aggressive monetary stimulus. In a news conference post-victory, Ishiba committed to ensuring Japan emerges from deflation and pledged to accelerate Kishida’s policies aimed at enhancing household income through wage increases.
Having served as agriculture minister, Ishiba also emphasised the need to address rural depopulation. He has promised to promote diversity and gender equality, advocating for revisions to a 19th-century civil code that mandates married couples to adopt a single surname - a contentious issue that has faced LDP resistance for years.