Will Japan's Ex-Minister Kobayashi Compete in LDP Leadership Race?
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Synopsis
In a significant political move, former Economic Security Minister Takayuki Kobayashi has declared his candidacy for the LDP presidential election next month. This comes after recent political setbacks for the ruling party. Will Kobayashi's experience and support from fellow lawmakers be enough to secure him a win?
Key Takeaways
- Takayuki Kobayashi announces candidacy for LDP presidential election.
- Election scheduled for October 4.
- Political landscape shifting following recent electoral defeats.
- Full-scale election format will include votes from lawmakers and party members.
- Major contenders are emerging as the LDP prepares for a competitive leadership contest.
Tokyo, Sep 11 (NationPress) Takayuki Kobayashi, the former Economic Security minister of Japan, declared his intention to participate in the upcoming presidential election of the ruling Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) next month, according to a report by Kyodo News.
"I will take the initiative and run in the LDP presidential election," Kobayashi, 50, stated on Thursday afternoon after gathering with his supporters at the parliament building, the report indicated.
This announcement follows the recent candidacy of former Foreign Minister Toshimitsu Motegi, making Kobayashi the second LDP member to officially enter the race for the election scheduled on October 4, aimed at selecting a successor to outgoing Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba, as reported by Xinhua News Agency.
Kobayashi, who previously worked as a bureaucrat in the Finance Ministry, held the position of economic security minister from 2021 to 2022 under former Prime Minister Fumio Kishida. He expressed confidence in securing the essential support from 20 LDP lawmakers required to proceed with his candidacy.
This marks Kobayashi's second attempt at the presidency after an unsuccessful bid last September, where Ishiba emerged victorious and took office the following month.
The imminent election is set for October 4, following Ishiba's announcement on Sunday about his resignation as party president, amid rising demands for accountability regarding the party's recent electoral defeat.
A significant political blow occurred in July when the LDP-Komeito coalition lost its majority in the House of Councillors, indicating widespread public discontent with the current administration.
This defeat was mirrored in the 2024 House of Representatives election, resulting in the ruling coalition holding a minority status in both legislative chambers, marking an unprecedented occurrence since the LDP's establishment in 1955.
Furthermore, the LDP has opted for a comprehensive format for the forthcoming leadership election, which will include votes from both lawmakers and grassroots party members to determine the successor to Prime Minister Ishiba.
During a meeting on Tuesday, party leaders confirmed that the official announcement of the election will be made on September 22, with voting scheduled for October 4.
This comprehensive format will involve a total of 590 votes, with 295 coming from LDP lawmakers and 295 from party members. The campaign will span over 12 days.
LDP Secretary-General Hiroshi Moriyama underscored that a comprehensive election is the most favorable method for electing a new leader, viewing it as an opportunity for the party to rejuvenate and advance as a national political entity.
According to the election rules, a candidate must secure more than half of the votes to be elected as the new party leader. If no candidate achieves a majority in the first round, a runoff vote will occur between the top two candidates on the same day, wherein LDP lawmakers will cast their votes again, and each of the 47 prefectural chapters will receive one vote.
With Ishiba's resignation, the LDP is preparing for a competitive leadership race as prominent candidates express their intention to run.
Point of View
It is crucial to observe the shifting dynamics within Japan's political landscape. The announcement of Takayuki Kobayashi's candidacy signals not only his ambition but also reflects the broader discontent among the electorate towards the ruling party. The upcoming election will be a key test for the LDP's resilience and direction in response to recent electoral challenges.
NationPress
13/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Takayuki Kobayashi?
Takayuki Kobayashi is a former Economic Security Minister in Japan and is currently running for the presidency of the Liberal Democratic Party (LDP).
When is the LDP presidential election scheduled?
The LDP presidential election is set for October 4.
What challenges has the LDP faced recently?
The LDP recently lost its majority in the House of Councillors, indicating deep public dissatisfaction with the government.
What is the election format for the LDP leadership race?
The election will be conducted in a full-scale format, with votes from both lawmakers and party members, totaling 590 votes.
What happens if no candidate receives a majority of votes?
If no candidate secures a majority in the first round, a runoff vote between the top two candidates will take place on the same day.
