Shigeru Ishiba Announces Candidacy for LDP Leadership
Veteran politician Shigeru Ishiba declared his candidacy for the leadership of Japan's ruling Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) on August 24th, 2021. This marks his fifth attempt to capture the position, which would automatically make him prime minister due to the LDP's majority in the Diet.
Ishiba, 67, made the announcement in his hometown of Yazu, Tottori Prefecture. He described it as the culmination of his political career, spanning 38 years. He pledged to fight with all his might in this "last battle."
Ishiba emphasized the need for "rule-abiding politics" in light of the recent LDP slush fund scandal. He promised "unlimited transparency" if he wins the leadership race in September.
His strength lies in the support of local party members, who are closely connected to public opinion. However, his internal party base is weak, and the focus is on whether he can increase the support of Diet members.
Ishiba has been elected 12 times to the Lower House from Tottori's 1st district. He has also served as defense minister, farm minister, and LDP secretary-general under the second Abe administration. He previously ran for LDP president in 2008, 2012, 2018, and 2020. In 2012, he finished first in the first round of voting but was defeated by Shinzo Abe in the runoff.