Japan: Kishida wins LDP vote, set to become Prime Minster

Former Japan's ruling Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) policy Chief Fumio Kishida outpaced popular reformer Taro Kono and won the party leadership vote after a run-off race.

Kishida will succeed outgoing Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga, the announcement will be made on Monday, October 4.

Kishida secured 257 votes when compared to Kono’s 170.

Earlier in the first round of voting, Kono got a total of 255 votes while Kishida garnered 256 votes.

In his victory speech, Kishida said that they “need to compile tens of trillions of yen worth of stimulus package by year-end.”

Further comments

“Decided to run because he felt that Japan's democracy was in danger.”

“Need to continue to fight against COVID-19.”

“Want to show that LDP party is capable of listening to the people.”