TOKYO: Japanese ruling party lawmakers aspiring to succeed KISHIDA Fumio as party chief and prime minister began preparations Thursday for the party’s leadership election expected in September.

Kishida, who made a surprise announcement Wednesday that he will not seek re-election as president of the Liberal Democratic Party and will step down as prime minister after the party race, encouraged his cabinet ministers mulling candidacy to run in the election without hesitation, in an unprecedented move for a sitting prime minister.

Ministers should “engage in debates openly without hesitation to the extent that duties are not hindered,” he said.

“I have been fortunate to experience many cabinet positions,” digital transformation minister KONO Taro, 61, told a news conference. “I hope the day comes when I can utilize this experience.”

“I have received many messages saying that I should run in the leadership election,” economy minister Ken Saito, 65, said at a press conference. “I’m beginning to think that I need to seriously listen to such voices.”

Former Environment Minister KOIZUMI Shinjiro, 43, and former economic security minister KOBAYASHI Takayuki, 49, both viewed as possible candidates, each visited Yasukuni Shrine in Tokyo to mark the 79th anniversary of Japan’s surrender in World War II. Koizumi declined to speak to the press, while Kobayashi told reporters that he will focus on improving his strength as a politician for now.

“We have a mission to make Japan stronger and more prosperous, and to pass it into the next generation,” economic security minister TAKAICHI Sanae, 63, who is backed mainly by conservative LDP members, said of the leadership race after her visit to the Shinto shrine.

Former LDP Secretary-General ISHIBA Shigeru, 67, has said that he will throw his hat in the ring if he secures enough recommendations from party members. Current Secretary-General MOTEGI Toshimitsu, 68, has also indicated his willingness to launch a bid.

The election schedule is set to be decided by the party’s election board Tuesday. The poll is most likely to take place Sept. 20.

JIJI Press