Shigeru Ishiba, the newly elected leader of Japan’s ruling Liberal Democratic Party (LDP), has announced plans to call a parliamentary election on October 27, just days after assuming the role of Prime Minister, The Associated Press reports.
Ishiba, who was chosen by the LDP on Friday, is guaranteed to succeed outgoing Prime Minister Fumio Kishida due to the party’s coalition’s control over parliament.
In a press conference Monday, Ishiba outlined his proposed cabinet and revealed the election date, noting the logistical need for early planning due to the tight timeframe.
“I believe it is crucial for the new administration to seek the public’s mandate as soon as possible,” he stated.
Ishiba’s move signals a swift transition and a focus on securing a strong mandate for his leadership. He has appointed former Environment Minister Shinjiro Koizumi, who came in third during the party leadership race, to lead the party’s election campaign.
Ishiba’s policy agenda is expected to focus on national security, with a particular emphasis on strengthening Japan’s defense posture. He has proposed an Asian version of NATO, advocating for increased regional dialogue regarding the use of U.S. nuclear deterrence. He has also suggested a more equal partnership with the United States, including joint management of U.S. bases in Japan and establishing Japanese Self Defense Force bases in the United States.
His centrist views, particularly on security, may be seen as a strategic move to counter the challenges posed by the liberal opposition while appealing to voters who have become disillusioned with the LDP’s recent corruption scandals. He also pledged to continue Kishida’s economic policies aimed at tackling deflation, increasing wages, and addressing Japan’s demographic challenges.
Ishiba, a veteran politician first elected to parliament in 1986, has served in key Cabinet positions including Defense Minister, Agriculture Minister, and LDP Secretary General under former Prime Minister Shinzo Abe.
