Hayashi and Kato Signal Ambitions in LDP Leadership Race

Aug 17, 2024 | News On Japan

TOKYO - The race to determine the successor to Prime Minister Kishida within the Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) is intensifying. Chief Cabinet Secretary Yoshimasa Hayashi has reportedly conveyed his intention to run for the LDP presidency to his close associates. Meanwhile, former Chief Cabinet Secretary Katsunobu Kato has also begun preparations for his candidacy.

The fierce competition within the LDP is spilling over into the Constitutional Democratic Party's (CDP) leadership election, with growing calls for a veteran lawmaker to throw their hat into the ring.

Prime Minister Kishida has indicated that he will not seek re-election in the upcoming LDP leadership race. So far, nearly ten lawmakers have expressed their interest in running, but securing the required 20 nominations remains a key challenge. Former LDP Secretary-General Akira Amari hinted during a TV interview on the 15th that he is close to securing the necessary endorsements, stating that “the numbers are gradually coming together.” Additionally, sources close to former Minister of Economic Security Takayuki Kobayashi have revealed that he has already secured more than 20 supporters, with only the final decision on which lawmakers to list as endorsers remaining.

The latest development comes as Chief Cabinet Secretary Hayashi conveyed his intention to run to his close colleagues this evening. Similarly, former Chief Cabinet Secretary Kato has reportedly begun preparations to enter the race.

The LDP leadership contest, now resembling a free-for-all, is also affecting the CDP's leadership election scheduled for next month. Current CDP leader Kenta Izumi is expected to face off against former leader Yukio Edano. However, there is growing support for a veteran lawmaker to step into the race. The call is growing for a seasoned politician to be the face of the party, especially if the LDP is poised to offer a stable alternative to the ruling government. As speculation rises, all eyes are on whether a former prime minister might shake up the race by stepping in.

Source: TBS

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