Who is Shigeru Ishiba, Japan's next prime minister
Shigeru Ishiba has emerged victorious in the race to become Japan's next prime minister, succeeding Fumio Kishida. The election was a closely contested battle between Ishiba and hardline nationalist Sanae Takaichi. This leadership election was marked by unpredictability, with a record nine candidates vying for the position. Following Ishiba's victory, Kishida expressed his expectations for the new leader to "create a strong cabinet with his executive power, decisiveness, and ability to create policies."
Ishiba's journey to prime ministerial office
Ishiba, a veteran lawmaker and former Defense Minister of Japan, is now at the helm of the ruling Liberal Democratic Party (LDP). This victory comes after four unsuccessful attempts to lead the party, including a 2012 bid against his political rival Shinzo Abe. The 67-year-old's political career spans 38 years, during which he has focused on security issues and revitalizing Japan's rural communities.
Ishiba's early life and political beginnings
Born to a politician father who once served as a Cabinet minister, Ishiba hails from the remote rural region of Tottori. He studied law at university before embarking on a short banking career. At the age of 29, he won his first parliamentary seat with the LDP in 1986. Throughout his political journey, he has held several key positions including LDP secretary general and minister for agriculture.
Ishiba's policy stance and future plans
Ishiba has been a vocal critic within his party, opposing policies such as the increased use of nuclear energy and advocating for separate surnames for married couples. He envisions an Asian version of the NATO security bloc to counter threats from China and North Korea. Despite his previous opposition to nuclear power, he has recently stated that he would keep some reactors operating in Japan.
