Kamikawa, in comparison, chose to remain a low-profile figure despite her growing common support for her candidacy for the position of prime minister in Japan. Called a “rising star” by LDP kingmaker Aso Taro, Kamikawa is known for her low-key, practical style and majime ( serious or diligent ) demeanour.
In a similar way to US Vice President Kamala Harris, who re-energized and instilled trust in the Democratic solution ahead of the upcoming US presidential election, the vote of a trailblazing female prime minister was quickly sway the people, especially if the LDP is positively reposition itself as a reformed group that is forward-looking and future-focused.
Unlike President Joe Biden, but, Prime Minister Kishida has no endorsed a leader.
Before stepping down, it would have been hard for Kamikawa to declare his desire to run for the best business as a member of the now-disbanded party led by Kishida. If Kishida decides to put his aid behind her, this might change.
It is crucial that the LDP chooses a candidate who is not connected to the bribery scandals in order to avoid losing in the upcoming general elections. Kamikawa’s standing has mostly remained unaffected by social scandals, despite attention over a gender discrimination comment, and this upbeat image may help the LDP in restoring public trust.
NO OBVIOUS FRONTRUNNER
However, electing a person to the best work would be a problem in Japan’s conservative political environment, and it’s an open question whether radical reforms may ultimately be pursued. Currently, the race for Japanese leadership is wide open, with no obvious frontrunner.
Other potential candidates include former defense minister Ishiba Shigeru, who has received favorable polls as Taro Kono’s top choice for the next prime minister, and Shinjiro Koizumi, a former environment minister and Junichiro Koizumi’s son.
Before running for office, contestants would first need the backing of 20 lawmakers. It’s difficult to predict how the lawmakers might vote because this is the first leadership election since the majority of the LDP’s factions have disdissolved.