TOKYO, Aug 26 – Japanese Foreign Minister Yoko Kamikawa said Sunday that she has received support from over 20 lawmakers to run in the Sept 27 presidential election of the ruling party to choose a successor to outgoing Prime Minister Fumio Kishida.
At 71, Kamikawa is seen as a leading contender to become Japan’s first female prime minister, having been appointed as the nation’s top diplomat in September 2023.
Kamikawa belongs to the Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) faction once led by Kishida, according to Kyodo news agency.
Chief Cabinet Secretary Yoshimasa Hayashi, also from the Kishida faction, is reportedly keen to join the race. Sources close to him suggest he may formally announce his candidacy as early as Tuesday.
The leadership race follows Kishida’s unexpected decision not to seek re-election as LDP leader, citing responsibility for a slush fund scandal that emerged late last year, severely damaging public trust in the party.
Despite the scandal, there is growing speculation that the new LDP leader could dissolve the House of Representatives for a snap election soon after assuming office, potentially as early as October.
So far, more than 10 LDP lawmakers have expressed interest in the leadership contest. Notable candidates include former Economic Security Minister Takayuki Kobayashi, 49, and former Defence Minister Shigeru Ishiba, 67.
To officially enter the presidential race, each candidate must secure recommendations from at least 20 LDP lawmakers.
