Japan’s LDP Leadership Election Gets Underway
On Saturday, members of Japan’s ruling Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) kicked off voting to pick their new president—who is almost certain to become the country’s next prime minister. Five big names are in the mix:
- Toshimitsu Motegi: Former LDP Secretary-General
- Yoshimasa Hayashi: Current Chief Cabinet Secretary
- Shinjiro Koizumi: Agriculture Minister & rising star
- Sanae Takaichi: Former Economic Security Minister
- Takayuki Kobayashi: Former Economic Security Minister
All five ran in last year’s record nine-candidate contest. Here’s how the vote works:
- First round: 590 total votes (295 from LDP lawmakers + 295 from grassroots members and registered supporters).
- Majority wins: If someone gets over half the votes, they’re in!
- Runoff: If no one hits the magic number, the top two vote-getters face off in round two.
Once the LDP picks its president, Japan’s parliament will hold a formal vote to designate the prime minister. Despite the ruling coalition lacking a majority in both chambers, the LDP’s status as the biggest party means its new leader is the favorite for the top job.
Stay tuned as Japan’s political future takes shape amidst the buzz of 🌏 global tech partnerships and fresh policy debates—this is one election young voters across Asia are watching! 🔍✨
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Japan's ruling Liberal Democratic Party begins voting for new leader
cgtn.com
