Shinjiro Koizumi Vows Immediate Snap Election and Economic Revamp

Shinjiro Koizumi, Japan's former environment minister and prime minister hopeful, pledges to call for a snap election and continue current economic policies if he wins the ruling party leadership. He aims to strengthen Japan's economy amidst inflation and rising interest rates, and plans new aid packages for small firms and low-income households.

Japan's former environment minister and leading prime ministerial candidate, Shinjiro Koizumi, declared on Friday his intention to call a snap election "at the earliest date possible" if he secures the ruling party's leadership this month. Koizumi stated he would maintain the economic policies of current Prime Minister Fumio Kishida should he become the next leader of the country.

Koizumi emphasized his commitment to reinforcing the foundation of Japan's economy to enable growth during an era of inflation and higher interest rates. In a news conference, he revealed plans to introduce a new economic package to support small businesses and low-income households grappling with increasing living costs immediately upon becoming prime minister.

The 43-year-old, son of the charismatic former prime minister Junichiro Koizumi, is seen as a strong candidate in the upcoming Sept. 27 race to choose the next Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) leader, with the LDP's control over parliament ensuring he would become prime minister. Koizumi led recent polls conducted by Nikkei, followed closely by former defense minister Shigeru Ishiba.

(With inputs from agencies.)