Shigeru Ishiba Wins Party Leadership Contest, Set to Become Japan’s Next PM

Liberal Democratic Party leader, Shigeru Ishiba is set to become Japan’s next prime minister after winning his party’s leadership contest in a crowded race. Mr. Ishiba emerged victorious in the run-off against hardline nationalist Sanae Takaichi, earning 215 votes compared to Mr. Takaichi’s 194. This was one of the most unpredictable leadership elections in decades, with a record nine candidates vying for the position. Mr. Ishiba will assume office as the next Prime Minister once parliament convenes in October. The push to replace current Prime Minister Fumio Kishida began in August, following his announcement to step down amid a series of scandals that drove the LDP’s approval ratings to record lows.