TOKYO (AP) — Japan’s ruling Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) elected former Defense Minister Shigeru Ishiba as its leader on Friday, positioning him to become the country’s next prime minister. The LDP’s control of parliament ensures that Ishiba will assume the top post in the coming week.
Ishiba, known for his expertise in defense policy, secured a surprise victory over Economic Security Minister Sanae Takaichi, a conservative contender who aimed to become Japan’s first female prime minister. Ishiba’s more moderate stance may have been a key factor, as the party seeks to recover from corruption scandals that eroded outgoing Prime Minister Fumio Kishida’s popularity. The LDP, which has ruled Japan almost uninterrupted since World War II, likely saw Ishiba as better positioned to fend off challenges from the liberal-leaning opposition and regain public trust.
After his victory, Ishiba thanked supporters and pledged to restore confidence in the party. “We must become a party where members freely discuss the truth, act fairly, and remain humble,” he stated at a press conference. He also stressed the need to strengthen Japan’s security in response to recent airspace violations by Russian and Chinese aircraft, and ongoing missile threats from North Korea. Ishiba promised to continue Kishida’s economic strategies aimed at lifting Japan out of deflation, while also addressing critical issues such as the country’s declining birthrate and its vulnerability to natural disasters.
“I want to build a society where women and young people have hope, hard work is rewarded, and everyone has the chance to excel,” Ishiba declared.
A general election is anticipated in the near future, though Ishiba only hinted at calling it after establishing his new government.
One of Ishiba’s key proposals is the creation of an Asian version of NATO, connecting existing U.S.-led defense networks, including alliances with Australia, New Zealand, South Korea, and the Philippines. He also called for a more balanced Japan-U.S. security partnership, suggesting Japanese military training bases in the United States could strengthen bilateral ties.
Ishiba is a known supporter of Taiwan’s democracy and advocates for a new disaster management agency to better prepare Japan for natural catastrophes.
First elected to parliament in 1986, Ishiba has held numerous high-ranking positions, including defense and agriculture minister, and served as LDP secretary general under former Prime Minister Shinzo Abe. Despite his credentials, Ishiba has faced resistance from influential conservatives within the party. Running for LDP leadership for the fifth time, the 67-year-old former banker described this campaign as his “final battle.”
Although a staunch advocate for strong defense policies, Ishiba has challenged some party orthodoxy by supporting gender equality initiatives and advocating for same-sex marriage legalization.
The LDP’s leadership election saw a record nine candidates, including two women, with votes cast by the party’s lawmakers and about one million party members—just 1% of Japan’s eligible voters.
Some political observers warn that the LDP’s internal struggles could lead to a return of short-lived governments, reminiscent of Japan’s “revolving door” politics of the early 2000s. Such instability, they argue, weakens prime ministers’ ability to implement long-term strategies or build strong international relationships.
Outgoing Prime Minister Kishida and his Cabinet are set to resign on Tuesday, with Ishiba expected to form a new government the same day. Kishida congratulated Ishiba on his win, calling it a “new beginning” for the LDP. He stressed the importance of bolstering Japan’s defense capabilities and strengthening the alliance with the United States amid rising regional tensions.
South Korea, which has significantly improved ties with Japan in recent years due to shared concerns about China, welcomed Ishiba’s election. In a statement, the South Korean Foreign Ministry expressed its hope for continued “active exchanges” with the new Japanese leader.
Meanwhile, Japan’s main opposition party, the Constitutional Democratic Party of Japan, continues to struggle to gain traction. Under its newly elected leader, centrist former Prime Minister Yoshihiko Noda, the party has pivoted toward a more conservative direction in hopes of attracting swing voters.
“I think the LDP made a wise choice,” said Takeshi Irita, a 64-year-old engineer. “Ishiba is pragmatic and stable, and his views resonate with the public.”
Hideko Arakawa, an 84-year-old retiree, added, “Ishiba’s experience as a seasoned politician gives me hope that he will bring positive change to Japan.”