Veteran politician Shigeru Ishiba, 67, will become Japan's next prime minister after winning a contested race for the leadership of the ruling Liberal Democratic Party (LDP), Reuters reports, citing BTA.
This is Ishiba's fifth attempt at the leadership post, this time winning a runoff against Economy Minister Sanae Takaichi. The race was one of the most unpredictable in decades, with a record nine candidates.
Ishiba, a former minister of defense and agriculture, takes over at a difficult time for the LDP, as the party's ratings have plummeted due to a series of scandals during the tenure of former Prime Minister Fumio Kishida.
Ishiba's position as a defense and national security expert was key to his campaign. He has long advocated for a greater role for Japan in international politics and less dependence on the US.
The main challenges facing the new prime minister will include rebuilding public trust in government, dealing with the rising cost of living and escalating tensions in the region, especially amid growing threats from China and North Korea.
Ishiba is known for his progressive policies, including support for a legislative change to allow spouses to use different surnames – a measure opposed by more conservative LDP members such as Sanae Takaichi. Although he has often been a critic of previous leaders, he promises to bring more justice and humanity to the country's politics.