Norimasa Nishikori, a former Finance Ministry bureaucrat, is running as the Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) candidate in the Shimane No. 1 district by-election. However, the LDP is facing challenges due to a political fund scandal involving its Abe faction. Nishikori has expressed frustration and anger over the issue, calling for the party to reflect on its actions.
The by-election was triggered by the death of Hiroyuki Hosoda, a former Lower House speaker. Nishikori is expected to face Akiko Kamei, a former Lower House member of the Constitutional Democratic Party of Japan (CDP). Shimane Prefecture has traditionally been an LDP stronghold, but the party's support has declined in recent years.
The CDP is capitalizing on the LDP's difficulties, accusing it of corruption and calling for a change in politics. Kamei is also expected to receive support from the Japanese Communist Party.
The outcome of the by-election could have implications for the Kishida administration. If the LDP loses in Shimane, it would be a significant setback for the party and could affect the fate of the government.