japan( Tokyo) Japan’s main ruling Liberal Democratic Party plans to discuss how to choose its new leader after Prime Minister Ishiba Shigeru announced his decision to step down. Former LDP Secretary-General Motegi Toshimitsu has announced to run in the leadership race.
Ishiba said at Sunday’s news conference he thought now is the right time for him to step aside as negotiations on US tariff measures have achieved a significant step, and it is time to pass the baton to his successor.
Following his announcement, the LDP is expected to discuss the format and schedule of the leadership race.
In terms of the format, some LDP members are calling for votes to be cast not only by Diet members but also rank-and-file members to reflect their views on the party’s restoration.
LDP Secretary-General Moriyama Hiroshi said it is important to explore ways to allow party members to directly participate.
LDP’s coalition partner Komeito and opposition parties say a political vacuum should not be extended for the LDP’s convenience. They are pointing out the need to discuss ways to tackle high consumer prices and other issues as soon as possible.
Former LDP Secretary-General says he will run
Motegi announced his bid on Monday, the day after Ishiba made public his decision to step down.
Motegi said he wants to devote himself to his country by using experience gained in his party and the government. He became the first to announce his candidacy.
Speaking to reporters in the Diet building, Motegi said Ishiba had made a tough decision to avoid dividing the party. He also said he would like to express respect for what the prime minister has achieved, including progress made in the Japan-US tariff negotiations.
Motegi went on to say that his party is currently facing the most serious crisis since its foundation and that it is necessary to build a new LDP by uniting the party. He said it is necessary to move Japan forward by resolving difficult problems both at home and abroad.
He also said that whoever becomes the next prime minister and party president, will face difficulty overcoming current hardships. Nevertheless, he said that he wants to commit himself to working for the country.
Reporters asked Motegi whether he would be able to gather 20 endorsements needed to run in the party leadership election. He answered that he is convinced that he would be able to do so.
Motegi is expected to hold a press conference soon to explain policies, how he will collaborate with opposition parties, and other issues he is expected to address in the party presidential election.
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