Shigeru Ishiba, 67, is Japan’s new PM after winning closely fought polls

Former Defence Minister Shigeru Ishiba successfully secured the role of Japan’s Prime Minister on his fifth attempt, prevailing in a competitive race among nine candidates vying to succeed Fumio Kishida.
Shigeru Ishiba will be sworn in as Japan’s 102nd Prime Minister by the Diet on October 1, the same day Fumio Kishida officially steps down from the role.
The 67-year-old Shigeru Ishiba triumphed over hardline nationalist Sanae Takaichi in a run-off vote, capping one of Japan’s most unpredictable leadership elections in decades, with a record nine candidates in the race, news agency Reuters reported.
As leader of the Liberal Democratic Party (LDP), which has dominated Japan’s post-war political landscape, Ishiba is assured of becoming the next Prime Minister due to the party’s majority in parliament.
The race to replace current Prime Minister Fumio Kishida began in August after he announced his decision to step down following a series of scandals that sent the LDP’s approval ratings to record lows.
“We must believe in the people, speak the truth with courage and sincerity, and work together to make Japan a safe and secure country where everyone can live with a smile once again,” Ishiba was quoted as saying by news agency Reuters in its report.
Shigeru Ishiba’s approach to diplomacy, especially with Japan’s closest ally, the United States, will be closely watched, as he has repeatedly advocated for a more balanced bilateral relationship. During his campaign, he also proposed the creation of an “Asian NATO,” a move likely to provoke tensions with Beijing, and one that a senior US official has already dismissed as premature.
Following Ishiba’s victory, US Ambassador to Japan, Rahm Emanuel, congratulated him in a post on X, expressing his eagerness to work with Ishiba to strengthen the US-Japan alliance.
Ishiba entered parliament in 1986 after a brief banking career, but his outspoken views have often put him at odds with his own party. He was sidelined by outgoing Prime Minister Fumio Kishida, becoming a dissenting voice within the LDP while enjoying widespread public support, especially among rank-and-file members.
Ishiba has been critical of several policies, including the increased reliance on nuclear energy, and has challenged the party’s stance on issues like allowing married couples to retain separate surnames.