September 9, 2025

Japan's political drama just got spicier! On Monday, September 8, Toshimitsu Motegi, the former Foreign Minister and the powerful Secretary-General of the ruling Liberal Democratic Party (LDP), declared, "I have resolved to run in the presidential race." At 69, Motegi is back on the battlefield for the party's top leadership, hoping to become Japan’s prime minister. This is no rookie move—it’s his second leadership bid after losing narrowly to Shigeru Ishiba earlier in 2024. Why all this buzz? It all started when Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba resigned on Sunday, September 7. His decision came after the LDP's poor showing in July’s House of Councillors election, which put big pressure on him from within the party. Ishiba told the press, "As a matter of course," acknowledging that many Cabinet members are gearing up for their leadership campaigns. So, who is this Motegi guy stirring the pot? Born in 1955 in Ashikaga, Tochigi Prefecture, Motegi is no stranger to the political scene. With an impressive education from the University of Tokyo and Harvard University, he built his career slowly—starting as a journalist and consultant before jumping into politics in the early 1990s. He has been a multiple-term member of Japan’s House of Representatives and has served as Minister of Economy, Trade and Industry, and of course, Foreign Affairs from 2019 to 2021. As foreign minister, Motegi made waves by cozying up Japan’s relationship with the United States and pushing big trade deals in the region. Known for his smart negotiation skills and pragmatic approach, many see him as a strong candidate to lead Japan next. But Motegi isn't the only contender. Former Foreign Minister Yoshimasa Hayashi is also preparing to throw his hat into the ring. Meanwhile, Sanae Takaichi, the hawkish former Economic Security Minister and close ally of late PM Shinzo Abe, might run again after losing to Ishiba last time. Then, there’s the charismatic Farm Minister Shinjiro Koizumi, son of ex-PM Junichiro Koizumi, who could shake things up as a youthful option. The LDP plans to decide the exact format and timeline of the leadership election soon. For now, party leaders keep running the show, ensuring smooth sailing until the new head is chosen. The prize? The winner will become Japan’s next prime minister, thanks to the LDP's strong parliamentary hold. This leadership race is a thrilling turning point for Japan’s future. Will Motegi’s experience and steady hand win the day, or will fresh faces like Koizumi capture hearts? The drama is just beginning!

Read More at Economictimes →

Tags: Toshimitsu motegi, Ldp leadership race, Japan prime minister, Shigeru ishiba resignation, Japanese politics, Sanae takaichi,