Japan’s New Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba Likely to Call Snap Election

 

Shigeru Ishiba, Japan's incoming prime minister, is expected to call a snap election for later this month, according to media reports. This move comes just days after he pledged to revive his party’s fortunes and boost public morale. Ishiba, who secured the leadership of the ruling Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) last week, will officially assume office on Tuesday, followed by the appointment of his cabinet.

At 67, Ishiba is a seasoned politician and former defense minister. His election win marks his fifth attempt at leading the LDP, and he is expected to seek a public mandate on October 27, more than a year ahead of the scheduled general election. Ishiba has indicated that he plans to hold elections "as soon as possible," with many political observers believing that he aims to capitalize on his recent victory while giving the opposition little time to organize under their new leader, Yoshihiko Noda of the Constitutional Democratic Party.

Ishiba's leadership has not been without challenges. While he won against right-wing competitors, uniting the LDP remains a concern. Reports suggest that Shinjiro Koizumi, the son of former prime minister Junichiro Koizumi, could head the party’s election committee. Koizumi, though unsuccessful in the leadership race, remains popular among voters and could play a key role in revitalizing the party.

However, Ishiba’s main rival for the LDP presidency, Sanae Takaichi, reportedly turned down a senior party position, adding to the difficulties he faces in bringing the party together before the election.

Ishiba’s policies are expected to focus on assisting low-income households struggling with the rising cost of living. Additionally, he is likely to push for a more assertive foreign policy, including the formation of an "Asian NATO" to counter growing threats from China and North Korea.