Race for Japan's Prime Minister: Profiles of Leading Candidates

Japan’s ruling party election on Friday will see nine candidates competing to replace outgoing Prime Minister Fumio Kishida. Leading contenders include a former defense minister, the son of a former prime minister, and the economic security minister aiming to be the country's first woman prime minister.

In a highly contested election, nine candidates are vying to become Japan’s next prime minister as the ruling party votes to replace outgoing leader Fumio Kishida. The candidates range from seasoned politicians to relatively new faces in the political arena.

Top contenders include former defense minister Shigeru Ishiba, who aspires to bring stability and experience; the young and popular Shinjiro Koizumi, known for his reformist stance; and economic security minister Sanae Takaichi, who aims to become Japan’s first female prime minister.

No candidate is expected to secure a majority in the first round, necessitating a second-round runoff between the top two vote-getters. The outcome of this election will significantly shape Japan's future policies and its position on the global stage.

(With inputs from agencies.)