Kyoto: Japan’s Agriculture, Forestry, and Fisheries Minister Shinjiro Koizumi on Tuesday officially declared his candidacy for president of the ruling Liberal Democratic Party (LDP), setting the stage for a high-stakes contest to succeed outgoing Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba.
Speaking at a press conference after a cabinet meeting, Koizumi said he had informed his supporters over the weekend of his decision to run. He stressed the need for party unity and emphasized that addressing pressing public concerns—such as rising prices—must remain the LDP’s top priority.
According to reports from NHK, Koizumi confirmed that Finance Minister Katsunobu Kato, who had contested the leadership race last year, will manage his campaign.
The race to succeed Ishiba is drawing multiple contenders. Former Foreign Minister Toshimitsu Motegi announced his candidacy last week, while Chief Cabinet Secretary Yoshimasa Hayashi and former Economic Security Minister Sanae Takaichi are also widely expected to join the fray.
The LDP has scheduled its leadership election for October 4, 2025, with ballots to be cast by both party lawmakers and grassroots members.
Adding to the crowded field, former Economic Security Minister Takayuki Kobayashi declared his intention to run on September 11. At 50, Kobayashi—who previously served under former Prime Minister Fumio Kishida—said he has secured the backing of at least 20 party lawmakers, the minimum threshold for entering the contest. This marks his second attempt at the presidency, following an unsuccessful bid last year when Ishiba eventually secured the top job.
With Koizumi’s announcement, the leadership race is shaping up as a pivotal battle that could redefine the LDP’s direction and Japan’s domestic and foreign policies.
