TOKYO, Oct 21 (News On Japan) - A special session of the Diet convened on October 21st, where Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) president Takeuchi is expected to be chosen as Japan’s next prime minister in the afternoon’s leadership vote. Following a coalition agreement reached on October 20th between the LDP and Nippon Ishin no Kai, Takeuchi’s appointment is now virtually certain, paving the way for her to become the first woman in Japan’s constitutional history to lead the government.
Speaking at an LDP executive meeting ahead of the vote, Takeuchi said she was determined to “secure victory and move swiftly on policies as the ruling coalition.” As part of her cabinet formation plans, Takeuchi intends to appoint former defense minister Kihara as chief cabinet secretary and former regional revitalization minister Satsuki Katayama as finance minister. Former LDP secretary-general Toshimitsu Motegi is also expected to be tapped as foreign minister.
Once the new cabinet is launched, Takeuchi plans to instruct ministries to draft a supplementary budget for fiscal 2025 to fund measures aimed at curbing rising prices. Her government will quickly face a packed diplomatic schedule, including a planned visit to Japan by U.S. President Donald Trump next week. With both domestic and international challenges ahead, Takeuchi’s leadership will be tested from the outset.
Source: テレ東BIZ