There’s a buzz surrounding female contenders for the presidency of the Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) in Japan. With Prime Minister Kishida’s cabinet facing dwindling approval ratings, especially amid recent scandals involving political funds, there’s speculation that the party might seek a turnaround by electing its first female party president.
One prominent figure currently in the spotlight is Foreign Minister Yoko Kamikawa. In a surprising move, Taro Aso, the LDP’s vice president, recently mentioned Kamikawa in a speech, referring to her as “a rising star”.
Taro Aso has previously backed Kishida within his faction, alongside the Motegi faction led by LDP Secretary General Toshimitsu Motegi and Kishida’s own faction, which was relatively weaker within the party. However, with the dissolution of most factions, including the triumvirate formed against the Abe faction, there’s speculation that Aso might throw his support behind Kamikawa in the upcoming presidential election.
Kamikawa, known for her steady work, has held the position of justice minister three times, earning praise for her firm stance, including signing orders for the execution of notable criminals. While she hasn’t explicitly expressed aspirations for the prime minister’s office, her competence has garnered recognition, with some even suggesting she has handled tasks that many men might shy away from.
Besides Kamikawa, other female candidates are also rumored to join the race. Former Internal Affairs and Communications Minister Seiko Noda and Economic Security Minister Sanae Takaichi, both of whom ran in 2021, are reportedly considering another bid. Additionally, there’s speculation about Tokyo Governor Yuriko Koike entering national politics, potentially shaking up the landscape.
Koike, known for her dynamic leadership, previously served as the first female defense minister and governor of Tokyo. If she decides to run for the LDP presidency, it could significantly alter the current lineup of contenders.
The potential candidacy of Kamikawa and Koike reflects contrasting political approaches. While Koike is recognized for her innovative initiatives like the Cool Biz campaign, Kamikawa is applauded for her resolute decision-making.
The prospect of Japan having its first female prime minister has drawn comparisons to the historic tenure of British Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher. Thatcher’s leadership paved the way for increased female participation in British politics over the years.
In a country like Japan, where gender disparity remains pronounced, the emergence of female candidates signals a potential political breakthrough. Despite Japan’s dismal ranking in global gender gap indices, the upcoming LDP presidential election presents an opportunity for change.
The recent dissolution of party factions has added complexity to the political landscape, with more members considering presidential bids. The support dynamics within the party are shifting, making the outcome of the election uncertain.
As the race unfolds, attention is focused on notable figures like former Environment Minister Shinjiro Koizumi, former Defense Minister Shigeru Ishiba, and digital minister Taro Kono. Their alliances and individual ambitions will shape the trajectory of the election.
In the midst of political upheaval, Japan stands on the brink of a potentially transformative moment, where the possibility of its first female prime minister looms large.
Could Japan witness its first female Prime Minister soon?
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01.03.2024
There’s a buzz surrounding female contenders for the presidency of the Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) in Japan. With Prime Minister Kishida’s cabinet facing dwindling approval ratings, especially amid recent scandals involving political funds, there’s speculation that the party might seek a turnaround by electing its first female party president.
One prominent figure currently in the spotlight is Foreign Minister Yoko Kamikawa. In a surprising move, Taro Aso, the LDP’s vice president, recently mentioned Kamikawa in a speech, referring to her as “a rising star”.
Taro Aso has previously backed Kishida within his faction, alongside the Motegi faction led by LDP Secretary General Toshimitsu Motegi and Kishida’s own faction, which was relatively weaker within the party. However, with the dissolution of most factions, including the triumvirate formed........
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