Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida has announced that he will not seek re-election as the leader of the ruling Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) in the upcoming party elections, signaling the country will have a new prime minister. Kishida stated that it was time for a new face at the helm of the LDP and that he would fully support their leadership.
Kishida’s decision comes amid falling approval ratings due to a major corruption scandal within the LDP involving unreported political funds. The scandal has implicated over 80 LDP lawmakers, with 10 people indicted in January.
Whoever wins the party leadership race will become Japan’s next prime minister, as the LDP holds the most seats in parliament. Kishida, known for his reputation as a consensus builder, took over as prime minister from Yoshihide Suga, who faced criticism for his handling of the COVID-19 pandemic.
During Kishida’s tenure, Japan committed to doubling its defense spending to meet the NATO standard of two percent of GDP by 2027, a shift from decades of strict pacifism. This move was encouraged by the United States amidst growing concerns over China’s assertive actions in the Asia Pacific region.
Kishida visited the US in April, where both countries announced increased cooperation. In July, Japan and the Philippines signed a defense pact allowing for the deployment of troops on each other’s territory.
The upcoming LDP leadership election will be crucial in determining Japan’s future direction under a new prime minister.
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