Yoshihiko Noda Elected President of Japan's Constitutional Democratic Party
On September 23rd, 2023, former Prime Minister Yoshihiko Noda emerged victorious in the runoff election for the presidency of Japan's main opposition party, the Constitutional Democratic Party (CDP). The 67-year-old politician defeated his opponent, former CDP President Yukio Edano, in a close contest.
The election, held at a special party meeting in Tokyo, saw Noda secure 267 points in the first round of voting, falling short of a majority. This led to a runoff with Edano, who had garnered 206 points. Two other candidates, current CDP President Kenta Izumi and Lower House member Harumi Yoshida, also participated in the first round, receiving 143 and 122 points respectively.
The runoff was limited to Diet members, party-endorsed candidates for national elections, and delegates from prefectural and metropolitan party branches. In this final round, Noda secured the necessary points to claim victory.
Noda's win comes at a crucial time for the CDP, as the ruling Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) prepares for its own presidential election on September 27th. Prime Minister Fumio Kishida has announced his decision not to seek re-election, opening the door for a new LDP leader to take the helm.
With the CDP now under Noda's leadership, the political landscape in Japan is poised for potential shifts as both major parties navigate internal changes and prepare for upcoming elections.