The election committee chief of Japan's ruling Liberal Democratic Party resigned Monday after they suffered their worst result since 2009, a party official said.

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Shinjiro Koizumi, the son of a former prime minister, submitted a letter of resignation, the official said, with media reports quoting him as saying he wanted to "take responsibility" for the result.&nbsp;

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The election committee chief of Japan's ruling Liberal Democratic Party resigned Monday after they suffered their worst result since 2009, a party official said.

The election committee chief of Japan's ruling Liberal Democratic Party resigned Monday after they suffered their worst result since 2009, a party official said. Also Read | German Finance Minister issues warning over potential US trade war Shinjiro Koizumi, the son of a former prime minister, submitted a letter of resignation, the official said, with media reports quoting him as saying he wanted to "take responsibility" for the result. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Shinjiro Koizumi, Japan’s election committee chief resigns, says official 

Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba was on thin ice on Monday after his ruling coalition was projected to have lost its parliamentary majority in disastrous snap elections.

Ishiba, 67, called Sunday's vote days after taking office on October 1, but voters angry at a slush fund scandal punished his Liberal Democratic Party (LDP).

"We are receiving severe judgement," Ishiba, who the LDP chose as leader last month precisely because he was seen as popular among voters, told national broadcaster NHK after polls closed on Sunday.

The Japanese people "expressed their strong desire for the LDP to do some reflection and become a party that will act in line with the people's will," he said.

Also read |&nbsp;<a bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:8,&quot;y&quot;:213,&quot;w&quot;:714,&quot;h&quot;:34,&quot;abs_x&quot;:41,&quot;abs_y&quot;:1898}" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/japans-ruling-party-projected-to-lose-majority-for-first-time-since-2009-dealing-a-setback-to-pm-ishiba-771154">Japan’s ruling party projected to lose majority for first time since 2009, dealing a setback to PM Ishiba</a>

National broadcaster NHK and other media outlets reported that the LDP -- which has governed almost non-stop since 1955 -- had fallen short of an absolute majority on its own for the first time since 2009.

Even worse, the projections suggest that the previous coalition of the LDP and the smaller Komeito party had missed Ishiba's election goal of winning 233 seats in the 456-member lower house.

The LDP won 191 seats and Komeito 24, according to NHK tallies as of Monday morning.&nbsp;

Ahead of the election, local media had speculated that if this happened, Ishiba could potentially quit to take responsibility, becoming Japan's shortest-serving prime minister in the post-war period.

If he stays, the outcome means Ishiba will have to head a minority government or seek new coalition partners.

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Footage from the LDP headquarters showed gloomy faces as projections based on exit polls indicated Ishiba's justice and agriculture ministers were likely to lose their seats.

"If we are unable to obtain a majority as a result of severe public judgement, we will ask as many people as possible to cooperate with us," the LDP's election chief Shinjiro Koizumi told reporters.

- Worst in 15 years - 
In Japan's last general election in 2021, the LDP won a majority in its own right, with 259 seats in parliament's powerful lower house. Komeito had 32.

If confirmed by official results, the LDP losing its majority will be the worst result since it lost power 15 years ago before being brought back in a 2012 landslide by late former premier Shinzo Abe.

Opinion polls before the election had suggested that in many districts LDP candidates were neck-and-neck with those from the Constitutional Democratic Party (CDP), the second-biggest in parliament, led by popular former prime minister Yoshihiko Noda.

The CDP appeared to have made considerable gains, with NHK indicating it had won 148 seats as of early Monday -- up from 96.

Ishiba had promised to not actively support LDP politicians caught up in the funding scandal that saw party members pocket money from fund-raising events and helped sink his predecessor Fumio Kishida.

But the opposition jumped on media reports that the party has provided 20 million yen ($132,000) each to district offices headed by these figures, who were still standing in the election.

"Voters chose which party would be the best fit to push for political reforms," Noda said late Sunday, adding that the "LDP-Komeito administration cannot continue".

The number of women lawmakers meanwhile reached a record high at 73, according to NHK.

Ishiba has pledged to revitalise depressed rural regions and to address the "quiet emergency" of Japan's declining population through family-friendly measures such as flexible working hours.

But he rowed back his position on issues including allowing married couples to take separate surnames. He also named only two women as ministers in his cabinet.

He has backed the creation of a regional military alliance along the lines of NATO to counter China, although he has cautioned it would "not happen overnight".

Masato Kamikubo, a political scientist at Ritsumeikan University, told AFP before the election that Noda's stance "is sort of similar to the LDP's".

"He is basically a conservative. The CDP or Noda can be an alternative to the LDP. Many voters think so," he said.

Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION&nbsp;audience.

Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba was on thin ice on Monday after his ruling coalition was projected to have lost its parliamentary majority in disastrous snap elections.

Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba was on thin ice on Monday after his ruling coalition was projected to have lost its parliamentary majority in disastrous snap elections. Ishiba, 67, called Sunday's vote days after taking office on October 1, but voters angry at a slush fund scandal punished his Liberal Democratic Party (LDP). "We are receiving severe judgement," Ishiba, who the LDP chose as leader last month precisely because he was seen as popular among voters, told national broadcaster NHK after polls closed on Sunday. The Japanese people "expressed their strong desire for the LDP to do some reflection and become a party that will act in line with the people's will," he said. Also read | Japan’s ruling party projected to lose majority for first time since 2009, dealing a setback to PM Ishiba National broadcaster NHK and other media outlets reported that the LDP -- which has governed almost non-stop since 1955 -- had fallen short of an absolute majority on its own for the first time since 2009. Even worse, the projections suggest that the previous coalition of the LDP and the smaller Komeito party had missed Ishiba's election goal of winning 233 seats in the 456-member lower house. The LDP won 191 seats and Komeito 24, according to NHK tallies as of Monday morning. Ahead of the election, local media had speculated that if this happened, Ishiba could potentially quit to take responsibility, becoming Japan's shortest-serving prime minister in the post-war period. If he stays, the outcome means Ishiba will have to head a minority government or seek new coalition partners. Also read | Parliamentary election in Japan underway, voters to decide fate of Ishiba's govt Footage from the LDP headquarters showed gloomy faces as projections based on exit polls indicated Ishiba's justice and agriculture ministers were likely to lose their seats. "If we are unable to obtain a majority as a result of severe public judgement, we will ask as many people as possible to cooperate with us," the LDP's election chief Shinjiro Koizumi told reporters. - Worst in 15 years - In Japan's last general election in 2021, the LDP won a majority in its own right, with 259 seats in parliament's powerful lower house. Komeito had 32. If confirmed by official results, the LDP losing its majority will be the worst result since it lost power 15 years ago before being brought back in a 2012 landslide by late former premier Shinzo Abe. Opinion polls before the election had suggested that in many districts LDP candidates were neck-and-neck with those from the Constitutional Democratic Party (CDP), the second-biggest in parliament, led by popular former prime minister Yoshihiko Noda. The CDP appeared to have made considerable gains, with NHK indicating it had won 148 seats as of early Monday -- up from 96. Ishiba had promised to not actively support LDP politicians caught up in the funding scandal that saw party members pocket money from fund-raising events and helped sink his predecessor Fumio Kishida. But the opposition jumped on media reports that the party has provided 20 million yen ($132,000) each to district offices headed by these figures, who were still standing in the election. "Voters chose which party would be the best fit to push for political reforms," Noda said late Sunday, adding that the "LDP-Komeito administration cannot continue". The number of women lawmakers meanwhile reached a record high at 73, according to NHK. Ishiba has pledged to revitalise depressed rural regions and to address the "quiet emergency" of Japan's declining population through family-friendly measures such as flexible working hours. But he rowed back his position on issues including allowing married couples to take separate surnames. He also named only two women as ministers in his cabinet. He has backed the creation of a regional military alliance along the lines of NATO to counter China, although he has cautioned it would "not happen overnight". Masato Kamikubo, a political scientist at Ritsumeikan University, told AFP before the election that Noda's stance "is sort of similar to the LDP's". "He is basically a conservative. The CDP or Noda can be an alternative to the LDP. Many voters think so," he said. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Japan PM Ishiba loses majority in snap election: 'We are receiving severe judgement'

Japan's scandal-hit ruling party has fallen short of a majority for the first time since 2009 in snap elections on Sunday, media projections showed, in a blow to new Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba.

Worse still, it was touch and go whether Ishiba's conservative Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) could secure a parliamentary majority with its long-term coalition partner, the Komeito party.

"We are receiving severe judgment," Ishiba told national broadcaster NHK late Sunday.

Voters "expressed their strong desire for the LDP to do some reflection and become a party that will act in line with the people's will," he said.

Former defence minister Ishiba, 67, called the election after being narrowly selected last month to lead the LDP, which has governed Japan for almost all of the past 70 years.

But voters in the world's fourth-largest economy have been rankled by rising prices and the fallout from a party slush fund scandal that helped sink previous premier Fumio Kishida.

Footage from the LDP headquarters after the polls closed on Sunday showed gloomy faces as the projections based on exit polls said Ishiba's justice and agriculture ministers were likely to lose their seats.

Ishiba, a self-confessed security policy geek who likes making model planes, had said his target in the election was for the coalition to win a majority.

Missing this goal would seriously undermine his position in the LDP and mean finding other coalition partners or leading a minority government.

"If we are unable to obtain a majority as a result of severe public judgement, we will ask as many people as possible to cooperate with us," the LDP's election chief Shinjiro Koizumi told reporters.

In Japan's last general election in 2021, the LDP won a majority in its own right, with 259 seats in parliament's powerful lower house. Komeito had 32.

On Sunday, national broadcaster NHK projected that the LDP would win between 153 and 219 seats -- short of the 233 needed for a majority in the 465-seat parliament.

If confirmed by official results, the LDP losing its majority would be the worst result since it lost power 15 years ago before being brought back in a 2012 landslide by late former premier Shinzo Abe.

Together with Komeito, which is projected 21 to 35 seats, the coalition would hold between 174 and 254 seats, according to NHK.

Projections from the Asahi Shimbun and Yomiuri dailies suggested the coalition would lose its majority. The Asahi projected the LDP would win 185 seats and that the coalition would manage only 210.&nbsp;

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Opinion polls before the election had suggested that in many districts, LDP candidates were neck-and-neck with those from the Constitutional Democratic Party (CDP), the second-biggest in parliament, led by popular former prime minister Yoshihiko Noda.

Projections on Sunday suggested that the CDP had made considerable gains, with NHK indicating it could win between 128 and 191 seats -- up from 96.

"The LDP's politics is all about quickly implementing policies for those who give them loads of cash," 67-year-old Noda told his supporters on Saturday.

Noda said on Sunday night he would hold "sincere talks with various parties".

"Our basic philosophy is that the LDP-Komeito administration cannot continue," Noda told Fuji-TV.

Ishiba has pledged to revitalise depressed rural regions and to address the "quiet emergency" of Japan's falling population through family-friendly measures such as flexible working hours.

But he has rowed back his position on issues including allowing married couples to take separate surnames. He also named only two women as ministers in his cabinet.

He has backed the creation of a regional military alliance along the lines of NATO to counter China, although he has cautioned it would "not happen overnight".

Noda's stance "is sort of similar to the LDP's. He is basically a conservative," Masato Kamikubo, a political scientist at Ritsumeikan University, told AFP before the election.

"The CDP or Noda can be an alternative to the LDP. Many voters think so."

Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Japan's scandal-hit ruling party has fallen short of a majority for the first time since 2009 in snap elections on Sunday, media projections showed, in a blow to new Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba.

Japan's scandal-hit ruling party has fallen short of a majority for the first time since 2009 in snap elections on Sunday, media projections showed, in a blow to new Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba. Worse still, it was touch and go whether Ishiba's conservative Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) could secure a parliamentary majority with its long-term coalition partner, the Komeito party. "We are receiving severe judgment," Ishiba told national broadcaster NHK late Sunday. Voters "expressed their strong desire for the LDP to do some reflection and become a party that will act in line with the people's will," he said. Former defence minister Ishiba, 67, called the election after being narrowly selected last month to lead the LDP, which has governed Japan for almost all of the past 70 years. But voters in the world's fourth-largest economy have been rankled by rising prices and the fallout from a party slush fund scandal that helped sink previous premier Fumio Kishida. Footage from the LDP headquarters after the polls closed on Sunday showed gloomy faces as the projections based on exit polls said Ishiba's justice and agriculture ministers were likely to lose their seats. Ishiba, a self-confessed security policy geek who likes making model planes, had said his target in the election was for the coalition to win a majority. Missing this goal would seriously undermine his position in the LDP and mean finding other coalition partners or leading a minority government. "If we are unable to obtain a majority as a result of severe public judgement, we will ask as many people as possible to cooperate with us," the LDP's election chief Shinjiro Koizumi told reporters. In Japan's last general election in 2021, the LDP won a majority in its own right, with 259 seats in parliament's powerful lower house. Komeito had 32. On Sunday, national broadcaster NHK projected that the LDP would win between 153 and 219 seats -- short of the 233 needed for a majority in the 465-seat parliament. If confirmed by official results, the LDP losing its majority would be the worst result since it lost power 15 years ago before being brought back in a 2012 landslide by late former premier Shinzo Abe. Together with Komeito, which is projected 21 to 35 seats, the coalition would hold between 174 and 254 seats, according to NHK. Projections from the Asahi Shimbun and Yomiuri dailies suggested the coalition would lose its majority. The Asahi projected the LDP would win 185 seats and that the coalition would manage only 210. Also read: Biden on Israel's latest Iran strikes: 'I hope this is the end' Opinion polls before the election had suggested that in many districts, LDP candidates were neck-and-neck with those from the Constitutional Democratic Party (CDP), the second-biggest in parliament, led by popular former prime minister Yoshihiko Noda. Projections on Sunday suggested that the CDP had made considerable gains, with NHK indicating it could win between 128 and 191 seats -- up from 96. "The LDP's politics is all about quickly implementing policies for those who give them loads of cash," 67-year-old Noda told his supporters on Saturday. Noda said on Sunday night he would hold "sincere talks with various parties". "Our basic philosophy is that the LDP-Komeito administration cannot continue," Noda told Fuji-TV. Ishiba has pledged to revitalise depressed rural regions and to address the "quiet emergency" of Japan's falling population through family-friendly measures such as flexible working hours. But he has rowed back his position on issues including allowing married couples to take separate surnames. He also named only two women as ministers in his cabinet. He has backed the creation of a regional military alliance along the lines of NATO to counter China, although he has cautioned it would "not happen overnight". Noda's stance "is sort of similar to the LDP's. He is basically a conservative," Masato Kamikubo, a political scientist at Ritsumeikan University, told AFP before the election. "The CDP or Noda can be an alternative to the LDP. Many voters think so." Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Japan’s ruling party projected to lose majority for first time since 2009, dealing a setback to PM Ishiba

Voting for the parliamentary election in Japan began early Sunday (Oct 27). Voters will decide the fate of Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba's government in the election that is expected to punish his coalition over a funding scandal and inflation, potentially ending a decade of dominance for his Liberal Democratic Party (LDP).

Voting for the parliamentary election in Japan began early Sunday (Oct 27). Voters will decide the fate of Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba's government in the election that is expected to punish his coalition over a funding scandal and inflation, potentially ending a decade of dominance for his Liberal Democratic Party (LDP). Citing opinion polls, a report by the news agency Reuters said that the LDP and its long-time partner Komeito would suffer a drubbing from voters, with the coalition possibly losing its parliamentary majority. Losing the majority in the Lower House (of Parliament) would force Prime Minister Ishiba into power-sharing negotiations with smaller parties, bringing uncertainty in some policy areas. Also read | Japan's solution to knife attacks on trains? Extra-long umbrellas with canopies Ishiba became the prime minister last month and called for a snap election in Japan. What do the voters have to say? Speaking to news agency Reuters, 62-year-old voter Masakazu Yamamoto said, "Given the current international situation, I have expectations toward the LDP in terms of their long-standing diplomacy. We have had many natural disasters and young people have also been facing a significant difficult situation." "Social issues become more pronounced. So, I hope the LDP will transform itself so that the country itself can change," Yamamoto added. Another voter, 38-year-old Atsuko Takahashi- who voted for the LDP, said, "I think right now many people are concerned about the rising prices and issues such as consumption tax, so I feel the party that is strongly addressing these issues and showing capabilities to make progress in such areas look more appealing." Meanwhile, 39-year-old Takeshi Ito, a supporter of the Democratic Party for the People (DPP), said that the party was focused on ultimately making the country better and ensuring financial resources were allocated more appropriately. What happens if Ishiba's coalition loses the majority? If Ishiba's coalition loses its majority, the LDP would need the backing of at least one other party. Reuters reported that the party's potential coalition partners could be the DPP and the Japan Innovation Party, but both have proposed policies at odds with the LDP line. Also watch | World DNA: Will Japanese PM Shigeru Ishiba return to power? × The DPP has called for halving Japan's 10 per cent sales tax until real wages rise, a policy not endorsed by the LDP, while the Innovation Party has pledged tougher donation rules to clean up politics. DPP party chief Yuichiro Tamaki has so far rejected the idea of working with an LDP-led coalition. Innovation Party head Nobuyuki Baba has not ruled out a partnership. Jeffrey Hall, an expert on Japanese politics at the Kanda University of International Studies, told Reuters that would be considerably weakened as a leader. "...his party will be weakened in the policies that it particularly wants to focus on because bringing in a coalition partner will cause them to have to make certain compromises with that party, whatever party it may be," Hall said. (With inputs from agencies)

Parliamentary election in Japan underway, voters to decide fate of Ishiba's govt

Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida is likely to call a snap election, perhaps within days. Despite low public support for a prompt election, Kishida eyes consolidating power amid surging popularity and a booming economy.

Japanese PM Kishida likely to call for Snap elections

Japan's ruling coalition is projected to have won the most votes in an election held just two days after the assassination of former prime minister Shinzo Abe, local media said Sunday. The ex-premier's ruling Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) and its coalition partner Komeito are expected to claim between 70 and 83 of the 125 upper house seats up for grabs, according to national broadcaster NHK. Even before Abe's murder, the LDP and Komeito were expected to cement their majority, though the final number of seats will be scrutinised for signs of whether the attack bolstered support for them. 
&nbsp; 
Prime Minister Fumio Kishida told NHK, "I think it is significant we were able to complete the elections." He had insisted the election proceed despite the assassination, saying "we must never allow violence to suppress speech." Abe was gunned down at close range on Friday in the western region of Nara and died of blood loss at a local hospital. His body was brought to his family home in Tokyo on Saturday. The assassination rattled the nation and sent shockwaves around the world, prompting an outpouring of sympathy even from nations with which the hawkish Abe had sometimes difficult relations, like China and South Korea.

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&nbsp; 
Abe, Japan's longest-serving prime minister, who sought to lift the economy out of chronic deflation with his bold "Abenomics" policies, beef up the military and counter China's growing clout, died after being gunned down during a campaign speech two days before the election. The death of the namesake of Japan's "Abenomics" policy makes any immediate challenge to Abe's legacy highly unlikely but could eventually allow Prime Minister Fumio Kishida to phase out Abe's government spending and monetary stimulus.&nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
Kishida, 64, was once described as among Abe's favoured successors and holds a solid majority in parliament with Komeito. But he faces significant policy headwinds, including rising prices and energy shortages, particularly after an early summer heatwave that led to a power crunch. 
&nbsp; 
(with inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

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Japan's ruling coalition is projected to have won the most votes in an election held just two days after the assassination of former prime minister Shinzo Abe, local media said Sunday.

Japan's ruling coalition is projected to have won the most votes in an election held just two days after the assassination of former prime minister Shinzo Abe, local media said Sunday. The ex-premier's ruling Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) and its coalition partner Komeito are expected to claim between 70 and 83 of the 125 upper house seats up for grabs, according to national broadcaster NHK. Even before Abe's murder, the LDP and Komeito were expected to cement their majority, though the final number of seats will be scrutinised for signs of whether the attack bolstered support for them. Prime Minister Fumio Kishida told NHK, "I think it is significant we were able to complete the elections." He had insisted the election proceed despite the assassination, saying "we must never allow violence to suppress speech." Abe was gunned down at close range on Friday in the western region of Nara and died of blood loss at a local hospital. His body was brought to his family home in Tokyo on Saturday. The assassination rattled the nation and sent shockwaves around the world, prompting an outpouring of sympathy even from nations with which the hawkish Abe had sometimes difficult relations, like China and South Korea. Also Read: Why is Elon Musk's 'hyperloop' still popular even after decade of setback? Abe, Japan's longest-serving prime minister, who sought to lift the economy out of chronic deflation with his bold "Abenomics" policies, beef up the military and counter China's growing clout, died after being gunned down during a campaign speech two days before the election. The death of the namesake of Japan's "Abenomics" policy makes any immediate challenge to Abe's legacy highly unlikely but could eventually allow Prime Minister Fumio Kishida to phase out Abe's government spending and monetary stimulus. Kishida, 64, was once described as among Abe's favoured successors and holds a solid majority in parliament with Komeito. But he faces significant policy headwinds, including rising prices and energy shortages, particularly after an early summer heatwave that led to a power crunch. (with inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Japan election: Kishida's coalition projected to win in wake of Abe's assassination

Japan has had no shortage of faceless prime ministers over the decades, a revolving door of leaders forgotten nearly as soon as they leave office. The most recent to hit the exit, who himself lasted only a year, was faulted for a communication style that often came across like a cure for insomnia.

Now comes Fumio Kishida, who was chosen as prime minister last month by the governing Liberal Democrats and is hoping to lead the party to victory Sunday in a closer-than-usual parliamentary election.

In anointing Kishida, 64, the Liberal Democrats passed over both an outspoken maverick who was popular with the public and a far-right nationalist who would have been Japan’s first female leader.

While slightly less stodgy than his predecessor, Yoshihide Suga, Kishida is frequently described as “boring” by the Japanese media, and he still struggles to connect with the public, or even his supporters and friends.

“His speech sounds so serious that it doesn’t sound interesting even if he was meaning to say something interesting,” said Ikuzo Kubota, 67, chairman of a real estate management company in Hiroshima, who has known Kishida for more than 30 years. “Even now, I sometimes think that he should learn how to say things in an interesting way.”

The rise of Kishida, a former foreign minister, is a potent reflection of the Liberal Democrats’ entrenched power in Japan. He was selected precisely because of his milquetoast persona, political experts said, as it allows behind-the-scenes power brokers to project their agenda onto him. And the party made its choice confident that it could win the election despite his lack of charisma.

But the gamble is likely to have consequences. Facing public discontent over economic stagnation and the government’s initial handling of the coronavirus crisis, the Liberal Democrats are projected to lose seats and merely eke out a majority. Many voters are expected to stay home.

Hoping to emerge from the election less weakened than expected, Kishida crisscrossed the country on chartered flights during the two-week campaign period. At his final campaign stop Saturday night, before a packed square in front of a Tokyo train station, Kishida received a smattering of polite applause as he shouted a hearty “Good evening.”

His voice cracked repeatedly as he tried to project enthusiasm into his stump speech, stumbling over his pledges to build a new style of economics and protect Japan in the face of growing regional instability. He wrapped up with a warning that Japanese democracy would be threatened if the country’s Communist Party gained more seats in parliament.

Kishida’s rhetoric about a “new capitalism” that would narrow income inequality, a platform aimed at a disgruntled public battered by coronavirus-related restrictions on business, has grown vaguer over the course of the campaign.

He has ratcheted back a proposal to raise taxes on capital gains. Instead, he has returned to a familiar economic playbook for the Liberal Democrats, calling for more fiscal spending on projects backed by large industries such as construction, which typically support the party.

“He’s almost like a figurehead for other figures in the party to get their ideas through,” said James Brady, the head Japan analyst at Teneo, a risk advisory consulting firm. “He’s not a strong leader. He’s not someone who’s coming up with a lot of ideas.”

Like many other Liberal Democratic lawmakers, Kishida was brought up in a political family. Both his grandfather and his father served in the House of Representatives, and Kishida started his political career as a secretary to his father.

Although Kishida represents a district in Hiroshima and his family is from the area, he was raised mostly in Tokyo. He spent three years in New York when his father was posted there during a stint at the trade ministry.

He often cites the formative experience of attending a public elementary school in the Elmhurst section of Queens, New York, describing an incident in 1965 when a white classmate refused to hold his hand as instructed by a teacher on a field trip. Kishida says the moment seeded in him a lifelong commitment to fairness and justice.

Back in Japan, Kishida was an ardent — although, by his own admission, middling — baseball player. He tried, and failed, three times to pass the entrance exam for the University of Tokyo, Japan’s most prestigious state university.

He finally enrolled at Waseda, a top private university in Tokyo. In “Kishida Vision,” a memoir published last year, he wrote that he was more interested in music and mahjong than academics during his undergraduate years.

Kishida started a career in banking, gaining empathy, he wrote, for people and small businesses struggling to repay loans.

When his father died of cancer at age 65, Kishida ran for the Hiroshima seat in 1993 and won. He has served in various Cabinet positions and was Japan’s longest-serving foreign minister, under Prime Minister Shinzo Abe.

He did not leave much of an impression on his colleagues. “I have no memory of him even though I met him every week in Cabinet meetings,” said Yoichi Masuzoe, a former governor of Tokyo who served as health minister when Kishida was a minister in charge of Okinawa and a string of islands known as the Northern Territories.

Some civil servants in the foreign ministry gave him the nickname “Chihuahua,” referring to him behind his back as a “well-mannered type of dog,” said Gen Nakatani, a former defense minister who has known Kishida for 30 years.

One lawmaker whom Kishida met in college and described as one of his best friends went on to back a rival, Taro Kono, in the Liberal Democrats’ recent leadership election.

Kishida lacks the swagger or arrogance that characterizes other politicians. He “listens to people, is calm and never speaks ill of others,” Nakatani said. “He doesn’t behave in a selfish manner.”

He was foreign minister when President Barack Obama visited Hiroshima in 2016, and when South Korea and Japan signed an agreement in 2015 to compensate so-called comfort women, the term for those taken as sex slaves by Japanese soldiers during World War II. But Kishida rarely gets credit for these accomplishments.

If he is remembered, it is as an abundant drinker who maintains his dignity and leaves the bar before midnight. In his memoir, he wrote of matching Sergey Lavrov, Russia’s foreign minister, drink for drink. Kishida once hosted a birthday party for his Russian counterpart and presented him with a bottle of Suntory Hibiki 21 whiskey, which retails for about $750.

When Caroline Kennedy was the U.S. ambassador in Tokyo, Kishida gave her T-shirts, aprons and mugs imprinted with photos or cartoons of her face.

His attempts to endear himself on social media have sometimes fallen flat or drawn outright jeering.

A post he shared on Twitter and Instagram, showing his wife standing in the kitchen doorway while he sat at the table eating a dinner she had prepared, was roundly mocked. Videos showing his wife, Yuko, 57, and his three sons cheering him on have been slightly more popular.

“He’s a little bit socially and culturally out of step with the majority of the population,” said Shihoko Goto, a senior northeast Asia associate at the Wilson Center in Washington.

His self-effacement undergirds a political pragmatism that allows him to pivot when certain ideas grow unpopular or he needs to cater to a particularly powerful constituency. More often than not, that constituency comes from within the party, not the public.

As a politician from Hiroshima, Kishida has opposed nuclear weapons and taken more dovish stances on foreign policy. But as a candidate for prime minister, he ramped up his hawkish views on China and championed the restart of nuclear power plants, the vast majority of which have been idled since the triple meltdown in Fukushima 10 years ago. Supporting nuclear power is a key agenda item for the right wing of the Liberal Democratic Party.

Because Kishida won the prime ministerial election backed by lawmakers “more geared toward pleasing organized interests and big businesses,” he now has to reward them, said Megumi Naoi, an associate professor of political science at University of California, San Diego.

As for his proposals on economic inequality, Naoi said she could not tell how sincere he had been in the first place. “I don’t know how much of this is his belief,” she said, “or just campaign strategy or political survival strategy.”

Japan has had no shortage of faceless prime ministers over the decades, a revolving door of leaders forgotten nearly as soon as they leave office. The most recent to hit the exit, who himself lasted only a year, was faulted for a communication style that often came across like a cure for insomnia.

Japan has had no shortage of faceless prime ministers over the decades, a revolving door of leaders forgotten nearly as soon as they leave office. The most recent to hit the exit, who himself lasted only a year, was faulted for a communication style that often came across like a cure for insomnia. Now comes Fumio Kishida, who was chosen as prime minister last month by the governing Liberal Democrats and is hoping to lead the party to victory Sunday in a closer-than-usual parliamentary election. In anointing Kishida, 64, the Liberal Democrats passed over both an outspoken maverick who was popular with the public and a far-right nationalist who would have been Japan’s first female leader. While slightly less stodgy than his predecessor, Yoshihide Suga, Kishida is frequently described as “boring” by the Japanese media, and he still struggles to connect with the public, or even his supporters and friends. “His speech sounds so serious that it doesn’t sound interesting even if he was meaning to say something interesting,” said Ikuzo Kubota, 67, chairman of a real estate management company in Hiroshima, who has known Kishida for more than 30 years. “Even now, I sometimes think that he should learn how to say things in an interesting way.” The rise of Kishida, a former foreign minister, is a potent reflection of the Liberal Democrats’ entrenched power in Japan. He was selected precisely because of his milquetoast persona, political experts said, as it allows behind-the-scenes power brokers to project their agenda onto him. And the party made its choice confident that it could win the election despite his lack of charisma. But the gamble is likely to have consequences. Facing public discontent over economic stagnation and the government’s initial handling of the coronavirus crisis, the Liberal Democrats are projected to lose seats and merely eke out a majority. Many voters are expected to stay home. Hoping to emerge from the election less weakened than expected, Kishida crisscrossed the country on chartered flights during the two-week campaign period. At his final campaign stop Saturday night, before a packed square in front of a Tokyo train station, Kishida received a smattering of polite applause as he shouted a hearty “Good evening.” His voice cracked repeatedly as he tried to project enthusiasm into his stump speech, stumbling over his pledges to build a new style of economics and protect Japan in the face of growing regional instability. He wrapped up with a warning that Japanese democracy would be threatened if the country’s Communist Party gained more seats in parliament. Kishida’s rhetoric about a “new capitalism” that would narrow income inequality, a platform aimed at a disgruntled public battered by coronavirus-related restrictions on business, has grown vaguer over the course of the campaign. He has ratcheted back a proposal to raise taxes on capital gains. Instead, he has returned to a familiar economic playbook for the Liberal Democrats, calling for more fiscal spending on projects backed by large industries such as construction, which typically support the party. “He’s almost like a figurehead for other figures in the party to get their ideas through,” said James Brady, the head Japan analyst at Teneo, a risk advisory consulting firm. “He’s not a strong leader. He’s not someone who’s coming up with a lot of ideas.” Like many other Liberal Democratic lawmakers, Kishida was brought up in a political family. Both his grandfather and his father served in the House of Representatives, and Kishida started his political career as a secretary to his father. Although Kishida represents a district in Hiroshima and his family is from the area, he was raised mostly in Tokyo. He spent three years in New York when his father was posted there during a stint at the trade ministry. He often cites the formative experience of attending a public elementary school in the Elmhurst section of Queens, New York, describing an incident in 1965 when a white classmate refused to hold his hand as instructed by a teacher on a field trip. Kishida says the moment seeded in him a lifelong commitment to fairness and justice. Back in Japan, Kishida was an ardent — although, by his own admission, middling — baseball player. He tried, and failed, three times to pass the entrance exam for the University of Tokyo, Japan’s most prestigious state university. He finally enrolled at Waseda, a top private university in Tokyo. In “Kishida Vision,” a memoir published last year, he wrote that he was more interested in music and mahjong than academics during his undergraduate years. Kishida started a career in banking, gaining empathy, he wrote, for people and small businesses struggling to repay loans. When his father died of cancer at age 65, Kishida ran for the Hiroshima seat in 1993 and won. He has served in various Cabinet positions and was Japan’s longest-serving foreign minister, under Prime Minister Shinzo Abe. He did not leave much of an impression on his colleagues. “I have no memory of him even though I met him every week in Cabinet meetings,” said Yoichi Masuzoe, a former governor of Tokyo who served as health minister when Kishida was a minister in charge of Okinawa and a string of islands known as the Northern Territories. Some civil servants in the foreign ministry gave him the nickname “Chihuahua,” referring to him behind his back as a “well-mannered type of dog,” said Gen Nakatani, a former defense minister who has known Kishida for 30 years. One lawmaker whom Kishida met in college and described as one of his best friends went on to back a rival, Taro Kono, in the Liberal Democrats’ recent leadership election. Kishida lacks the swagger or arrogance that characterizes other politicians. He “listens to people, is calm and never speaks ill of others,” Nakatani said. “He doesn’t behave in a selfish manner.” He was foreign minister when President Barack Obama visited Hiroshima in 2016, and when South Korea and Japan signed an agreement in 2015 to compensate so-called comfort women, the term for those taken as sex slaves by Japanese soldiers during World War II. But Kishida rarely gets credit for these accomplishments. If he is remembered, it is as an abundant drinker who maintains his dignity and leaves the bar before midnight. In his memoir, he wrote of matching Sergey Lavrov, Russia’s foreign minister, drink for drink. Kishida once hosted a birthday party for his Russian counterpart and presented him with a bottle of Suntory Hibiki 21 whiskey, which retails for about $750. When Caroline Kennedy was the U.S. ambassador in Tokyo, Kishida gave her T-shirts, aprons and mugs imprinted with photos or cartoons of her face. His attempts to endear himself on social media have sometimes fallen flat or drawn outright jeering. A post he shared on Twitter and Instagram, showing his wife standing in the kitchen doorway while he sat at the table eating a dinner she had prepared, was roundly mocked. Videos showing his wife, Yuko, 57, and his three sons cheering him on have been slightly more popular. “He’s a little bit socially and culturally out of step with the majority of the population,” said Shihoko Goto, a senior northeast Asia associate at the Wilson Center in Washington. His self-effacement undergirds a political pragmatism that allows him to pivot when certain ideas grow unpopular or he needs to cater to a particularly powerful constituency. More often than not, that constituency comes from within the party, not the public. As a politician from Hiroshima, Kishida has opposed nuclear weapons and taken more dovish stances on foreign policy. But as a candidate for prime minister, he ramped up his hawkish views on China and championed the restart of nuclear power plants, the vast majority of which have been idled since the triple meltdown in Fukushima 10 years ago. Supporting nuclear power is a key agenda item for the right wing of the Liberal Democratic Party. Because Kishida won the prime ministerial election backed by lawmakers “more geared toward pleasing organized interests and big businesses,” he now has to reward them, said Megumi Naoi, an associate professor of political science at University of California, San Diego. As for his proposals on economic inequality, Naoi said she could not tell how sincere he had been in the first place. “I don’t know how much of this is his belief,” she said, “or just campaign strategy or political survival strategy.”

Japan’s election looks closer than usual, but party in power has hit snooze

Polls suggests that Japan’s ruling Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) could lose its majority in 2021 general election, potentially turning new leader Fumio Kishida into another short-term prime minister and triggering a return to political uncertainty.

Survey: Kishida, LDP set to lose majority in Japan election 2021

Japan's popular coronavirus vaccination minister, Taro Kono, announced his candidacy on Friday to lead the ruling party and, by extension, become the next prime minister, highlighting his image as an outspoken reformer with a conservative streak.

Kono becomes the third candidate to throw his hat in the ring for the leadership of the Liberal Democratic Party (LDP), which opened up last week when Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga said he would step down.

Kono appears to have an edge over former foreign minister Fumio Kishida and former internal affairs minister Sanae Takaichi in the race.

Also see |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/race-for-new-leader-begins-in-japan-as-struggling-pm-suga-steps-down-410458">Race for new leader begins in Japan as struggling PM Suga steps down</a>

Nearly a third of respondents in a poll by major domestic media last week said the Georgetown University-educated Kono, 58, was the most suitable to succeed Suga.

"I will run in the race for LDP leader," said Kono, adding he would be an empathetic leader who "laughs and cries together" with the Japanese people, and would aim to create a "warm" country where everyone who worked hard had a chance to succeed.

Previously known as a strong critic of nuclear energy, Kono sounded a more cautious tone in a two-page policy brief handed to reporters gathered to hear him declare his candidacy.

"We will carry out a realistic energy policy which will be reassuring for industry," said the paper, which also highlighted the importance of promoting digitalisation and green technologies.

Kono promised to strengthen Japan's deterrence against "unilateral attempts to shift the status quo". Officials have warned China over its assertiveness in the East and South China Seas.

The winner of the Sept. 29 vote of grass-roots LDP members and its lawmakers is virtually assured the premiership because the LDP has a majority in parliament's lower house, which must hold an election by Nov. 28.

YOUNG FOLLOWERS

Lawmakers are counting on the new leader to boost the party's support after Suga's ratings hit record lows, undermined by haphazard handling of the coronavirus pandemic.

Kono, who has been in charge of a rocky vaccination rollout, has remained popular, particularly among younger voters.

That is partly thanks to his ability to reach out to the public through Twitter, where he has 2.3 million followers - a rarity in heavily scripted Japanese politics dominated by older men less adept with social media.

In the policy paper, Kono vowed to continue the fight against the coronavirus by acquiring COVID-19 booster shots.

Some in the LDP feel Kono is too young, given the average age of prime ministers taking office since 2000 was about 62. Their concerns include his lone-wolf style in a system that runs on consensus, and an outspoken streak that can occasionally see him challenge the party line.

Despite that reputation, Kono toed the line on Abe's key policies when he served as both defence and foreign ministers in his cabinets.

He has differentiated his conservative stances from those of his father, former chief cabinet secretary Yohei Kono, who wrote a landmark 1993 apology to "comfort women", a euphemism for women forced to work in Japan's wartime military brothels.

Kishida is reasonably popular and can count on the support of his faction of the party, while Takaichi, hoping to become Japan's first woman prime minister, has support on the party's conservative flank, including that of influential former prime minister Shinzo Abe.

One remaining question is whether former defence minister Shigeru Ishiba, who is also well-liked among party members, will run on his own or back Kono.

Japan's popular coronavirus vaccination minister, Taro Kono, announced his candidacy on Friday to lead the ruling party and, by extension, become the next prime minister, highlighting his image as an outspoken reformer with a conservative streak.

Japan's popular coronavirus vaccination minister, Taro Kono, announced his candidacy on Friday to lead the ruling party and, by extension, become the next prime minister, highlighting his image as an outspoken reformer with a conservative streak. Kono becomes the third candidate to throw his hat in the ring for the leadership of the Liberal Democratic Party (LDP), which opened up last week when Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga said he would step down. Kono appears to have an edge over former foreign minister Fumio Kishida and former internal affairs minister Sanae Takaichi in the race. Also see | Race for new leader begins in Japan as struggling PM Suga steps down Nearly a third of respondents in a poll by major domestic media last week said the Georgetown University-educated Kono, 58, was the most suitable to succeed Suga. "I will run in the race for LDP leader," said Kono, adding he would be an empathetic leader who "laughs and cries together" with the Japanese people, and would aim to create a "warm" country where everyone who worked hard had a chance to succeed. Previously known as a strong critic of nuclear energy, Kono sounded a more cautious tone in a two-page policy brief handed to reporters gathered to hear him declare his candidacy. "We will carry out a realistic energy policy which will be reassuring for industry," said the paper, which also highlighted the importance of promoting digitalisation and green technologies. Kono promised to strengthen Japan's deterrence against "unilateral attempts to shift the status quo". Officials have warned China over its assertiveness in the East and South China Seas. The winner of the Sept. 29 vote of grass-roots LDP members and its lawmakers is virtually assured the premiership because the LDP has a majority in parliament's lower house, which must hold an election by Nov. 28. YOUNG FOLLOWERS Lawmakers are counting on the new leader to boost the party's support after Suga's ratings hit record lows, undermined by haphazard handling of the coronavirus pandemic. Kono, who has been in charge of a rocky vaccination rollout, has remained popular, particularly among younger voters. That is partly thanks to his ability to reach out to the public through Twitter, where he has 2.3 million followers - a rarity in heavily scripted Japanese politics dominated by older men less adept with social media. In the policy paper, Kono vowed to continue the fight against the coronavirus by acquiring COVID-19 booster shots. Some in the LDP feel Kono is too young, given the average age of prime ministers taking office since 2000 was about 62. Their concerns include his lone-wolf style in a system that runs on consensus, and an outspoken streak that can occasionally see him challenge the party line. Despite that reputation, Kono toed the line on Abe's key policies when he served as both defence and foreign ministers in his cabinets. He has differentiated his conservative stances from those of his father, former chief cabinet secretary Yohei Kono, who wrote a landmark 1993 apology to "comfort women", a euphemism for women forced to work in Japan's wartime military brothels. Kishida is reasonably popular and can count on the support of his faction of the party, while Takaichi, hoping to become Japan's first woman prime minister, has support on the party's conservative flank, including that of influential former prime minister Shinzo Abe. One remaining question is whether former defence minister Shigeru Ishiba, who is also well-liked among party members, will run on his own or back Kono.

Japan's popular vaccine minister Kono enters race for next leader

Japanese Prime Minister Yoshihide&nbsp;Suga has announced that he will not run for re-election as party leader in a vote this month.

Effectively ending his tenure after just one year, Suga said he will resign at an emergency meeting of senior members of the ruling Liberal Democratic Party.

Earlier, domestic media had reported that Suga was to call a snap election but Suga had said&nbsp;he had no plans to do so.

Suga was struggling to shore up support and attract high-profile backers ahead of a leadership contest and a general election.

The 72-year-old&nbsp;took office last September from his powerful predecessor Shinzo Abe with support of about 70 per cent.&nbsp;

But his ratings have sunk to record lows below 30 per cent as Japan is battling&nbsp;its worst wave of COVID-19 infections and many of the LDP lawmakers are afraid to lose their seats.

Former foreign minister,&nbsp;Fumio Kishida is challenging Suga for the party leader post.&nbsp;

The party leader contest is slated for September&nbsp;29, and the winner is all but assured of being premier because of the LDP's majority in the lower house.

However, it is difficult to predict the outcome of the&nbsp;party leadership race as unlike last year,&nbsp;grassroots LDP members will vote along with its members of parliament.

Fearful members of the Japanese parliament are scared of losing their seats, maybe wary of following their elders' orders.

The government is considering holding the general election on October&nbsp;17.

&nbsp;

Japanese Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga has announced that he will not run for re-election as party leader in a vote this month. Effectively ending his tenure after just one year, Suga said he will resign at an emergency meeting of senior members of the ruling Liberal Democratic Party.

Japanese Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga has announced that he will not run for re-election as party leader in a vote this month. Effectively ending his tenure after just one year, Suga said he will resign at an emergency meeting of senior members of the ruling Liberal Democratic Party. Earlier, domestic media had reported that Suga was to call a snap election but Suga had said he had no plans to do so. Suga was struggling to shore up support and attract high-profile backers ahead of a leadership contest and a general election. The 72-year-old took office last September from his powerful predecessor Shinzo Abe with support of about 70 per cent. But his ratings have sunk to record lows below 30 per cent as Japan is battling its worst wave of COVID-19 infections and many of the LDP lawmakers are afraid to lose their seats. Former foreign minister, Fumio Kishida is challenging Suga for the party leader post. The party leader contest is slated for September 29, and the winner is all but assured of being premier because of the LDP's majority in the lower house. However, it is difficult to predict the outcome of the party leadership race as unlike last year, grassroots LDP members will vote along with its members of parliament. Fearful members of the Japanese parliament are scared of losing their seats, maybe wary of following their elders' orders. The government is considering holding the general election on October 17.

Japanese Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga set to resign soon; will not run for re-election

Japanese Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga is likely to call a snap election after the Tokyo Olympic and Paralympic Games, a media report said, showing his resolve to push ahead with the Games despite the country's struggle to contain the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus">COVID-19 pandemic</a>.

The government is considering crafting a new economic stimulus package before the expected snap election, the Asahi newspaper said on Thursday, citing several anonymous ruling party executives.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/10000-olympic-volunteers-quit-ahead-of-games-organisers-389106">10,000 Olympic volunteers quit ahead of Games: Organisers</a>

"We're not examining a new stimulus package," the government's top spokesman Katsunobu Kato told a news conference on Thursday.

"But we see the need to revive the economy ... and hope to take necessary steps flexibly," he said, when asked about the chance of a possible new stimulus plan.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/japan-newspaper-sponsoring-tokyo-olympics-urges-cancellation-387435">Japan newspaper sponsoring Tokyo Olympics urges cancellation</a>

Suga agreed on Wednesday with the head of his ruling coalition partner not to extend the current parliament session when it closes on June 16, according to media reports.

That means&nbsp;Japan&nbsp;will forgo compiling a supplementary budget for now and tap nearly 4 trillion yen ($36.50 billion) left in reserves to pay for immediate spending to combat the pandemic, the Asahi said.

The government's public relations official declined to comment on Asahi's report on Suga's election plan.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tokyo-2020-chief-rules-out-delay-despite-pandemic-fears-389114">Tokyo 2020 chief rules out delay despite pandemic fears</a>

"It's obvious we need an extra budget, but parliament is closing so we don't have time to pass it," ruling party lawmaker Shoji Nishida told Reuters last week.

"But there should be debate within the party on compiling another stimulus package and an extra budget," he said.

Suga has said he would focus on dealing with the pandemic, and that&nbsp;Japan&nbsp;will go ahead with the Games under strict virus-protection measures.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/olympics-japan-looks-to-extend-covid-19-states-of-emergency-ahead-of-games-387932">Olympics: Japan looks to extend COVID-19 states of emergency ahead of Games</a>

Some ruling party lawmakers have called on the government to boost spending to revive an economy hit by new state of emergency curbs to prevent the spread of the virus.

Slow vaccine rollouts and strong public opposition to holding the Games have led to a plunge in Suga's support ratings, heightening uncertainty over his administration's fate.

With the Tokyo Olympic Games starting on July 23, the most likely scenario is for Suga to dissolve parliament after the Sept. 5 end of the Paralympic Games and call a snap election, the Asahi said.

($1 = 109.5900 yen)

Japanese Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga is likely to call a snap election after the Tokyo Olympic and Paralympic Games, a media report said, showing his resolve to push ahead with the Games despite the country's struggle to contain the COVID-19 pandemic.

Japanese Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga is likely to call a snap election after the Tokyo Olympic and Paralympic Games, a media report said, showing his resolve to push ahead with the Games despite the country's struggle to contain the COVID-19 pandemic. The government is considering crafting a new economic stimulus package before the expected snap election, the Asahi newspaper said on Thursday, citing several anonymous ruling party executives. Also Read | 10,000 Olympic volunteers quit ahead of Games: Organisers "We're not examining a new stimulus package," the government's top spokesman Katsunobu Kato told a news conference on Thursday. "But we see the need to revive the economy ... and hope to take necessary steps flexibly," he said, when asked about the chance of a possible new stimulus plan. Also Read | Japan newspaper sponsoring Tokyo Olympics urges cancellation Suga agreed on Wednesday with the head of his ruling coalition partner not to extend the current parliament session when it closes on June 16, according to media reports. That means Japan will forgo compiling a supplementary budget for now and tap nearly 4 trillion yen ($36.50 billion) left in reserves to pay for immediate spending to combat the pandemic, the Asahi said. The government's public relations official declined to comment on Asahi's report on Suga's election plan. Also Read | Tokyo 2020 chief rules out delay despite pandemic fears "It's obvious we need an extra budget, but parliament is closing so we don't have time to pass it," ruling party lawmaker Shoji Nishida told Reuters last week. "But there should be debate within the party on compiling another stimulus package and an extra budget," he said. Suga has said he would focus on dealing with the pandemic, and that Japan will go ahead with the Games under strict virus-protection measures. Also Read | Olympics: Japan looks to extend COVID-19 states of emergency ahead of Games Some ruling party lawmakers have called on the government to boost spending to revive an economy hit by new state of emergency curbs to prevent the spread of the virus. Slow vaccine rollouts and strong public opposition to holding the Games have led to a plunge in Suga's support ratings, heightening uncertainty over his administration's fate. With the Tokyo Olympic Games starting on July 23, the most likely scenario is for Suga to dissolve parliament after the Sept. 5 end of the Paralympic Games and call a snap election, the Asahi said. ($1 = 109.5900 yen)

Japan PM Suga likely to call snap election after Tokyo Olympic Games: Report

Japan's ruling party will vote on September 14 on Prime Minister Shinzo Abe's replacement, an official confirmed Wednesday, as powerful chief cabinet secretary Yoshihide Suga consolidated his frontrunner status in the race.

A vote in parliament,&nbsp;expected to endorse the Liberal Democratic Party's new leader,&nbsp;is likely to follow on September 16.

The new prime minister will face a raft of challenges, from the coronavirus pandemic to a tanking economy, as well as ensuring the postponed Tokyo Olympic Games can go ahead.

Also see:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/possible-successors-stack-up-as-japanese-prime-minister-shinzo-abe-resigns-323622">Possible successors stack up as Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe resigns</a>

Key LDP factions have already thrown their support behind Suga, who is expected to formally announce his candidacy later Wednesday.

Two other candidates, former defence minister Shigeru Ishiba and LDP policy chief Fumio Kishida, have so far announced plans to stand.

Abe, Japan's longest-serving leader, kicked off the race when he said last week he would step down over health problems.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/fumio-kishida-announces-candidacy-to-replace-japans-shinzo-abe-324437">Fumio Kishida announces candidacy to replace Japan's Shinzo Abe</a>

Scaled-back vote

The LDP has opted for a scaled-back leadership vote that will not include rank-and-file members.

Instead, only its MPs and three representatives from each of the country's 47 prefectures will vote.

The decision has elicited some criticism, but party officials said it would take too long to organise a broader vote.

Experts said the format favours Suga, 71, who has built an effectively insurmountable lead in the race already.

His selection "is increasingly assured, as the LDP's factions -– with the exception of the factions headed by rival candidates Shigeru Ishiba and Fumio Kishida -– have lined up behind Suga", said Tobias Harris, a Japan expert at Teneo consultancy, in a note.

Suga has held his key post for years -- coordinating policy among ministries and agencies, and serving as the effective face of the government as its chief spokesman.

Considered a pragmatic politician, he is a close Abe advisor who encouraged the prime minister to run again after a disastrous first term in office ended after just a year in 2007.

Rivals

Kishida, 63, a former foreign minister, was in the past considered Abe's favoured successor.

But the outgoing prime minister has said he will not endorse a candidate, and Kishida's limited public profile is likely to leave him struggling to challenge the likes of Suga.

On Wednesday, the policy chief said more was needed from Abe's signature economic stimulus programme, as it had primarily benefited big companies and the rich.

"Trickle-down effects are expected for the middle class, mid-sized and small-sized companies and for the countryside, but that's not happening yet," he argued in an interview with local media.

Ishiba, 63, polls well with the general public but is less popular among party members.

He once left the LDP -- spending time as both an independent and briefly joining another party -- and many within the ruling bloc have not forgiven the political dalliance.

Ishiba has also stressed the need for everyday people on lower incomes to benefit from government economic policies, and said Japan needs to reduce its reliance on nuclear power.

Japan's ruling party will vote on September 14 on Prime Minister Shinzo Abe's replacement, an official confirmed Wednesday, as powerful chief cabinet secretary Yoshihide Suga consolidated his frontrunner status in the race.

Japan's ruling party will vote on September 14 on Prime Minister Shinzo Abe's replacement, an official confirmed Wednesday, as powerful chief cabinet secretary Yoshihide Suga consolidated his frontrunner status in the race. A vote in parliament, expected to endorse the Liberal Democratic Party's new leader, is likely to follow on September 16. The new prime minister will face a raft of challenges, from the coronavirus pandemic to a tanking economy, as well as ensuring the postponed Tokyo Olympic Games can go ahead. Also see: Possible successors stack up as Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe resigns Key LDP factions have already thrown their support behind Suga, who is expected to formally announce his candidacy later Wednesday. Two other candidates, former defence minister Shigeru Ishiba and LDP policy chief Fumio Kishida, have so far announced plans to stand. Abe, Japan's longest-serving leader, kicked off the race when he said last week he would step down over health problems. Also read: Fumio Kishida announces candidacy to replace Japan's Shinzo Abe Scaled-back vote The LDP has opted for a scaled-back leadership vote that will not include rank-and-file members. Instead, only its MPs and three representatives from each of the country's 47 prefectures will vote. The decision has elicited some criticism, but party officials said it would take too long to organise a broader vote. Experts said the format favours Suga, 71, who has built an effectively insurmountable lead in the race already. His selection "is increasingly assured, as the LDP's factions -– with the exception of the factions headed by rival candidates Shigeru Ishiba and Fumio Kishida -– have lined up behind Suga", said Tobias Harris, a Japan expert at Teneo consultancy, in a note. Suga has held his key post for years -- coordinating policy among ministries and agencies, and serving as the effective face of the government as its chief spokesman. Considered a pragmatic politician, he is a close Abe advisor who encouraged the prime minister to run again after a disastrous first term in office ended after just a year in 2007. Rivals Kishida, 63, a former foreign minister, was in the past considered Abe's favoured successor. But the outgoing prime minister has said he will not endorse a candidate, and Kishida's limited public profile is likely to leave him struggling to challenge the likes of Suga. On Wednesday, the policy chief said more was needed from Abe's signature economic stimulus programme, as it had primarily benefited big companies and the rich. "Trickle-down effects are expected for the middle class, mid-sized and small-sized companies and for the countryside, but that's not happening yet," he argued in an interview with local media. Ishiba, 63, polls well with the general public but is less popular among party members. He once left the LDP -- spending time as both an independent and briefly joining another party -- and many within the ruling bloc have not forgiven the political dalliance. Ishiba has also stressed the need for everyday people on lower incomes to benefit from government economic policies, and said Japan needs to reduce its reliance on nuclear power.

Japan's ruling party sets September 14 vote on PM Abe's successor

After Japan's former Primer Minister Shinzo Abe stepped down fro, his post due to his ill health, people have been guessing which Japanese leaders will be contesting the elections to replace Abe.

A day after former Foreign Minister&nbsp;Fumio Kishida announced his plans to run for elections, Japanese&nbsp;Chief Cabinet Secretary Yoshihide Suga, too, has formally announced his participation in the upcoming elections.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/fumio-kishida-announces-candidacy-to-replace-japans-shinzo-abe-324437">Also read|&nbsp;Fumio Kishida announces candidacy to replace Japan's Shinzo Abe</a>

Suga had earlier declined rumours about running for elections. Abe's loyalist&nbsp;had last week emerged as a strong contender to succeed Abe. However, Suga politely declined the opportunity and instead said he would like to focus on uplifting the economy that has been hit due to the novel coronavirus. "We need to consider what we can do to prevent the economy from falling off a cliff," Suga had earlier said.

However, on Wednesday he announced that&nbsp;he has decided to stand for party leader to avoid a political vacuum during the coronavirus pandemic.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/who-will-replace-abe-and-when-japan-pms-resignation-sparks-leadership-race-323707">Also read|&nbsp;Who will replace Abe and when: Japan PM's resignation sparks leadership race</a>

"In this time of national crisis, we cannot permit a political vacuum," Suga told a briefing. "I decided to run after giving very deep thought to what I can do, as a politician and as a member of Abe`s administration, to bring back as soon as possible the day when people can live without fear."

Abe's longtime aid has made it clear that, if elected, he would continue Abe's aggressive fiscal and monetary stimulus policies and singled out hard-hit rural areas.

Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) will now be hosting elections to replace him as its President on September 14. The candidates are required to register their names on September 08,&nbsp;and can start campaigning immediately after.&nbsp;The parliamentary vote for prime minister will be held on September 16.

After Japan's former Primer Minister Shinzo Abe stepped down fro, his post due to his ill health, people have been guessing which Japanese leaders will be contesting the elections to replace Abe.

After Japan's former Primer Minister Shinzo Abe stepped down fro, his post due to his ill health, people have been guessing which Japanese leaders will be contesting the elections to replace Abe. A day after former Foreign Minister Fumio Kishida announced his plans to run for elections, Japanese Chief Cabinet Secretary Yoshihide Suga, too, has formally announced his participation in the upcoming elections. Also read| Fumio Kishida announces candidacy to replace Japan's Shinzo Abe Suga had earlier declined rumours about running for elections. Abe's loyalist had last week emerged as a strong contender to succeed Abe. However, Suga politely declined the opportunity and instead said he would like to focus on uplifting the economy that has been hit due to the novel coronavirus. "We need to consider what we can do to prevent the economy from falling off a cliff," Suga had earlier said. However, on Wednesday he announced that he has decided to stand for party leader to avoid a political vacuum during the coronavirus pandemic. Also read| Who will replace Abe and when: Japan PM's resignation sparks leadership race "In this time of national crisis, we cannot permit a political vacuum," Suga told a briefing. "I decided to run after giving very deep thought to what I can do, as a politician and as a member of Abe`s administration, to bring back as soon as possible the day when people can live without fear." Abe's longtime aid has made it clear that, if elected, he would continue Abe's aggressive fiscal and monetary stimulus policies and singled out hard-hit rural areas. Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) will now be hosting elections to replace him as its President on September 14. The candidates are required to register their names on September 08, and can start campaigning immediately after. The parliamentary vote for prime minister will be held on September 16.

Abe's longtime aid Yoshihide Suga to run for leadership race

Shinzo Abe has declared victory in Japan's national elections with polls indicating his party has won a majority of seats in the upper house of Parliament, and is now set to become the country's longest-serving prime minister.

Shinzo Abe declares victory in Japan election

Japanese voters cast ballots Sunday in an upper house election, with Shinzo Abe's ruling bloc looking to protect its majority and keep on track plans to amend the country's pacifist constitution.

The 64-year-old Abe, who is on course to become Japan's longest-serving prime minister, is also hoping to shore up his mandate ahead of a crucial consumption tax hike later this year, along with trade negotiations with Washington.

Opinion polls suggest his Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) and its coalition partner Komeito are likely to win a majority, mostly due to a lacklustre opposition.

Sunday's vote is for half the seats in the House of Councillors -- the less powerful upper house of parliament -- and polling stations across the country open at 7:00 am (2200 GMT Saturday).

The vote outcome is expected to become clear shortly after the polls close at 8:00 pm, with pollsters suggesting turnout could be lower than 50 per cent -- significantly less than usual.

Abe's ruling coalition is forecast to win a solid majority of the 124 seats contested in the election, according to pre-election surveys.

The two parties control 70 seats in the half of the chamber that is not being contested, meaning the projections put them on track to maintain their overall majority in the body.

"Abe's strength is largely based on passive support resulting from disarray in the opposition camp and a lack of rivals," Shinichi Nishikawa, professor of political science at Meiji University in Tokyo, told AFP.

A win means Abe should be able to stay in power until November when he will break the record of the nation's longest-serving premiership held by Taro Katsura, a revered politician who served three times between 1901 and 1913.

Amend constitution

During campaigns, Abe's ruling coalition has sought to win voter support for a rise in the nation's consumption tax to 10 per cent later this year as part of efforts to ease swelling social security costs in the "ultra-aged" country.

Abe is also hoping that his coalition and a loose group of conservatives from smaller opposition parties can grab a two-thirds majority in the upper house, giving him the support to move ahead with plans to amend the constitution's provisions on the military.

"This is an election to decide whether to pick parties who take responsibility for firm discussions on the constitution," Abe told voters in a campaign speech earlier this month.

Abe vowed to "clearly stipulate the role of the Self-Defence Forces in the constitution," which prohibits Japan from waging war and maintaining a military.

The provisions, imposed by the US forces after World War II, are popular in the public at large but reviled by nationalists like Abe, who see them as outdated and punitive.

Local media predict that forces in favour of revising the constitution, led by Abe's LDP, are likely to win close to 85 of the seats being contested, giving them a "supermajority" in the chamber.

"Since the ruling coalition is widely expected to win the election, attention is now focused on whether the pro-revision forces can win a two-thirds majority," Nishikawa said.

But even if Abe secures it, any constitutional revision also requires approval in a national referendum -- a result that is far from guaranteed.

Japanese voters cast ballots Sunday in an upper house election, with Shinzo Abe's ruling bloc looking to protect its majority and keep on track plans to amend the country's pacifist constitution.

Japanese voters cast ballots Sunday in an upper house election, with Shinzo Abe's ruling bloc looking to protect its majority and keep on track plans to amend the country's pacifist constitution. The 64-year-old Abe, who is on course to become Japan's longest-serving prime minister, is also hoping to shore up his mandate ahead of a crucial consumption tax hike later this year, along with trade negotiations with Washington. Opinion polls suggest his Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) and its coalition partner Komeito are likely to win a majority, mostly due to a lacklustre opposition. Sunday's vote is for half the seats in the House of Councillors -- the less powerful upper house of parliament -- and polling stations across the country open at 7:00 am (2200 GMT Saturday). The vote outcome is expected to become clear shortly after the polls close at 8:00 pm, with pollsters suggesting turnout could be lower than 50 per cent -- significantly less than usual. Abe's ruling coalition is forecast to win a solid majority of the 124 seats contested in the election, according to pre-election surveys. The two parties control 70 seats in the half of the chamber that is not being contested, meaning the projections put them on track to maintain their overall majority in the body. "Abe's strength is largely based on passive support resulting from disarray in the opposition camp and a lack of rivals," Shinichi Nishikawa, professor of political science at Meiji University in Tokyo, told AFP. A win means Abe should be able to stay in power until November when he will break the record of the nation's longest-serving premiership held by Taro Katsura, a revered politician who served three times between 1901 and 1913. Amend constitution During campaigns, Abe's ruling coalition has sought to win voter support for a rise in the nation's consumption tax to 10 per cent later this year as part of efforts to ease swelling social security costs in the "ultra-aged" country. Abe is also hoping that his coalition and a loose group of conservatives from smaller opposition parties can grab a two-thirds majority in the upper house, giving him the support to move ahead with plans to amend the constitution's provisions on the military. "This is an election to decide whether to pick parties who take responsibility for firm discussions on the constitution," Abe told voters in a campaign speech earlier this month. Abe vowed to "clearly stipulate the role of the Self-Defence Forces in the constitution," which prohibits Japan from waging war and maintaining a military. The provisions, imposed by the US forces after World War II, are popular in the public at large but reviled by nationalists like Abe, who see them as outdated and punitive. Local media predict that forces in favour of revising the constitution, led by Abe's LDP, are likely to win close to 85 of the seats being contested, giving them a "supermajority" in the chamber. "Since the ruling coalition is widely expected to win the election, attention is now focused on whether the pro-revision forces can win a two-thirds majority," Nishikawa said. But even if Abe secures it, any constitutional revision also requires approval in a national referendum -- a result that is far from guaranteed.

Japan votes in upper house election

Voters across Japan began casting their ballots on Sunday in the upper house election, which is expected to be a barometer of public opinion on Prime Minister Shinzo Abe's six and a half years in power. Members of the upper house serve six-year terms, with about half the seats up for grabs every three years. In Sunday's election, 124 seats are up for grabs, including three that are newly added. With a total of 370 candidates vying for the seats, key platform issues include amending the Constitution, hiking the consumption tax, and the state's pension system.

Voting begins in Japan's upper house election

Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, buoyed by a huge election win for lawmakers who favour revising Japan`s post-war, pacifist constitution, signalled a push towards his long-held goal on Monday (October 23) but will need to convince a divided public to succeed.

While addressing a press conference he said: &quot;We must explain it (the revision of the constitution to the public) after achieving a concrete plan in the Commission of the Constitution, as I don`t see the results of this general election as a reflection of public opinion regarding the revision of the constitution.&quot;

Parties in favour of amending the US-drafted charter won nearly 80 per cent of the seats in Sunday`s (October 22) lower house election, media counts showed. Four seats remain to be called and final figures are expected later on Monday.

Abe said he wanted to get other parties on board, including Tokyo Governor Yuriko Koike`s new Conservative Party of Hope and was not insisting on a target of changing the constitution by 2020 that he floated earlier this year.

Any revision of the constitution requires support from two-thirds of the members of each chamber of parliament and a majority in a public referendum, with no minimum quorum.

Amending the charter`s pacifist Article 9 would be hugely symbolic for Japan. Supporters see it as the foundation of post-war democracy but many conservatives view it as a humiliating imposition after Japan`s defeat in 1945.

It would also be a victory for Abe, whose conservative agenda of restoring traditional values, stressing obligations to the state over individual rights and loosening constraints on the military, centres on revising the constitution.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Any revision of the constitution requires support from two-thirds of the members of each chamber of parliament and a majority in a public referendum, with no minimum quorum

Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, buoyed by a huge election win for lawmakers who favour revising Japan`s post-war, pacifist constitution, signalled a push towards his long-held goal on Monday (October 23) but will need to convince a divided public to succeed. While addressing a press conference he said: "We must explain it (the revision of the constitution to the public) after achieving a concrete plan in the Commission of the Constitution, as I don`t see the results of this general election as a reflection of public opinion regarding the revision of the constitution." Parties in favour of amending the US-drafted charter won nearly 80 per cent of the seats in Sunday`s (October 22) lower house election, media counts showed. Four seats remain to be called and final figures are expected later on Monday. Abe said he wanted to get other parties on board, including Tokyo Governor Yuriko Koike`s new Conservative Party of Hope and was not insisting on a target of changing the constitution by 2020 that he floated earlier this year. Any revision of the constitution requires support from two-thirds of the members of each chamber of parliament and a majority in a public referendum, with no minimum quorum. Amending the charter`s pacifist Article 9 would be hugely symbolic for Japan. Supporters see it as the foundation of post-war democracy but many conservatives view it as a humiliating imposition after Japan`s defeat in 1945. It would also be a victory for Abe, whose conservative agenda of restoring traditional values, stressing obligations to the state over individual rights and loosening constraints on the military, centres on revising the constitution.

Shinzo Abe signals on revision of constitution

Prime Minister Shinzo Abe&#39;s ruling coalition won a landslide victory on Sunday in an election for Parliament&#39;s upper house, despite concerns about his economic policies and plans to revise the nation&rsquo;s post-war pacifist constitution for the first time. 
 
Final count showed Abe&#39;s coalition, like-minded parties and independents had won the two-thirds &quot;super majority&quot; needed to try to revise the constitution&#39;s restraints on the military, a step that could strain ties with China, where memories of Japan&#39;s past militarism run deep. 
 
Abe&#39;s Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) fell one short of winning a simple majority, which would have increased its clout within the coalition. Earlier projections had shown it was within their grasp for the first time since 1989. 
 
Nevertheless, the overall victory will still bolster Abe&#39;s grip over the conservative party that he led back to power in 2012 promising to reboot the economy with hyper-easy monetary policy, fiscal spending and reforms. 
 
Abe&#39;s junior coalition partner, Komeito, fared well, winning 14 seats compared with nine before the election. 
 
In Japan, some financial market players fear that trying to amend the constitution could divert Abe&#39;s energy away from reviving the stuttering economy. 
 
&quot;The key question will be whether he can carry out (economic) structural reforms,&quot; said Nobuhiko Kuramochi, chief strategist at Mizuho Securities. &quot;If Abe fails to do so despite the political freedom he has gained, that will be negative for foreign investors&#39; appetite for Japanese stocks.&quot; 
 
Some voters who backed Abe&#39;s LDP also said the economy&#39;s health was their biggest concern. 
 
&quot;Especially since I see economic growth as the priority, I have little hope for the opposition parties,&quot; said Yoshihiko Takeda, a 36-year-old IT company employee. 
 
How big a mandate? 
 
Abe had cast the election as a referendum on &quot;Abenomics&quot;. With signs the strategy is failing, the government plans to compile a post-election stimulus package that could exceed 10 trillion Yen ($99 billion). 
 
Abe declined to say how big the package might be. Economists worry the government will choose big-ticket infrastructure projects rather than implement tough structural reforms. 
 
Abe said he would reshuffle his cabinet but did not say when or how. There has been speculation that Abe might replace finance minister Taro Aso, 75, among others. 
 
His minister for Okinawa, Aiko Shimajiri, lost her seat, along with justice minister Mitsuhide Iwaki. 
 
The loss in Okinawa is a slap at a US-Japan plan to relocate a controversial US-marines airbase on the island, reluctant host to the bulk of America&#39;s military forces in Japan. 
 
Abe said he had won a mandate for his economic policies in the election, although the assertion could be weakened by low turnout. &quot;We were given approval for our mandate to powerfully pursue Abenomics. We&rsquo;d like to continue with our efforts to achieve what we&#39;ve promised,&quot; he said on TV. 
 
Kyodo news agency put turnout at about 54 per cent, a bit above the record low of 52.61 per cent seen in the last upper house poll three years ago. 
 
The opposition Democratic Party linked up with three smaller parties, including the Japanese Communist Party, to try to stop the pro-constitutional reform camp getting a super majority. Abe&#39;s coalition already has a super-majority in the lower house. 
 
Conservatives see the constitution as a humiliating symbol of Japan&#39;s defeat in World War II. Its admirers consider it the source of post-war peace and democracy. Revising the charter needs the approval of two-thirds in both houses of parliament and a majority in a public referendum. 
 
&quot;We think the constitution is something that puts limits on power, but sadly, that&#39;s not what the LDP&#39;s (revised draft) does,&quot; Yukio Edano, Democratic Party secretary general, said on TV. &quot;If there is no common agreement on this point, then there is no platform on which we can debate individual articles.&quot; 
 
Surveys show most voters see no need to revise the constitution and the LDP&#39;s dovish coalition partner, Komeito, is reluctant to change its pacifist Article 9. The party&#39;s secretary-general, Yoshihisa Inoue, said on TV that views in the party on possible changes had &quot;not come together&quot; yet. 
 
China&#39;s official agency quickly warned that the victory posed a danger to regional stability. Commentaries by the Xinhua news agency are not formal government statements but often reflect official thinking in China, where memories of Japan&#39;s past militarism still spark outrage. 
 
&quot;With Japan&#39;s pacifist constitution at serious stake and Abe&#39;s power expanding, it is alarming both for Japan&#39;s Asian neighbours, as well as for Japan itself, as Japan&#39;s militarisation will serve to benefit neither side,&quot; the Xinhua commentary said. 
 
Abe said revising the constitution was his Liberal Democratic Party&#39;s (LDP) cherished goal, but forging agreement on changes in the diverse pro-revision camp would not be easy. 
 
Revisions require a two-thirds majority in both houses of parliament and a majority of votes in a public referendum. 
 
&quot;To realise revision of the constitution is my duty as LDP president,&quot; Abe told a news conference. &quot;But it is not that easy, so I hope debate will deepen steadily.&quot; 
 
Experts agreed that building such agreement would be tough. 
 
&quot;It&#39;s the first time to have two-thirds in both houses of parliament, but you can&#39;t find any issue on which the two-thirds can agree,&quot; said Gerry Curtis, professor emeritus at New York&#39;s Columbia University. 
 
Strong Economy, Revised Constitution 
 
Some in financial markets worry a focus on the constitution would drain attention from the economy, but Abe promised on Monday to craft a large stimulus package. 
 
&quot;A public referendum is needed so he must boost support to advance revision. So for constitutional change as well, he will probably come up with a large-scale economic package,&quot; said Daiji Aoki, senior economist at UBS Securities Japan. 
 
Doubts about Abe&#39;s policies persist even though his ruling bloc won big in terms of the number of seats. Many voters felt they had no other option, given memories of the main opposition Democratic Party&#39;s rocky 2009-2012 rule. Others stayed home. 
 
Surveys show many Japanese voters are wary of changing the constitution&#39;s war-renouncing Article 9, which advocates see as the source of Japan&#39;s post-war peace and democracy. Conservatives see it as a symbol of humiliating defeat. 
 
If taken literally, Article 9 bans the maintenance of armed forces. Successive governments have interpreted it to allow a military for self-defence, a concept Abe last year stretched to allow Japan&#39;s military to aid friendly nations under attack. 
 
Formal revision of Article 9 would likely be largely symbolic - though nonetheless historic. 
 
Convincing the Komeito party, the dovish junior partner in Abe&#39;s LDP-led coalition, to agree would be challenging. The pro-revision camp might therefore tackle another amendment first. 
 
One possibility is a clause giving the government more power in a national emergency, a move critics say would curtail civil rights. 
 
Another option, floated by the Komeito, would be to add an environmental protection clause. That less contentious step would nonetheless break the political taboo on revision. 
 
It is unclear whether that would satisfy Abe&#39;s political base. 
 
&quot;Conservatives see the constitution as emasculating the nation,&quot; said Jeffrey Kingston, director of Asian studies at Temple University in Tokyo. 
 
&quot;If I&#39;m in his camp, I&#39;m thinking, this may be my best shot.&quot; 
 
(Reuters)

China's official agency quickly warned that the victory posed a danger to Japan's Asian neighbours and to Japan itself

Prime Minister Shinzo Abe's ruling coalition won a landslide victory on Sunday in an election for Parliament's upper house, despite concerns about his economic policies and plans to revise the nation’s post-war pacifist constitution for the first time. Final count showed Abe's coalition, like-minded parties and independents had won the two-thirds "super majority" needed to try to revise the constitution's restraints on the military, a step that could strain ties with China, where memories of Japan's past militarism run deep. Abe's Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) fell one short of winning a simple majority, which would have increased its clout within the coalition. Earlier projections had shown it was within their grasp for the first time since 1989. Nevertheless, the overall victory will still bolster Abe's grip over the conservative party that he led back to power in 2012 promising to reboot the economy with hyper-easy monetary policy, fiscal spending and reforms. Abe's junior coalition partner, Komeito, fared well, winning 14 seats compared with nine before the election. In Japan, some financial market players fear that trying to amend the constitution could divert Abe's energy away from reviving the stuttering economy. "The key question will be whether he can carry out (economic) structural reforms," said Nobuhiko Kuramochi, chief strategist at Mizuho Securities. "If Abe fails to do so despite the political freedom he has gained, that will be negative for foreign investors' appetite for Japanese stocks." Some voters who backed Abe's LDP also said the economy's health was their biggest concern. "Especially since I see economic growth as the priority, I have little hope for the opposition parties," said Yoshihiko Takeda, a 36-year-old IT company employee. How big a mandate? Abe had cast the election as a referendum on "Abenomics". With signs the strategy is failing, the government plans to compile a post-election stimulus package that could exceed 10 trillion Yen ($99 billion). Abe declined to say how big the package might be. Economists worry the government will choose big-ticket infrastructure projects rather than implement tough structural reforms. Abe said he would reshuffle his cabinet but did not say when or how. There has been speculation that Abe might replace finance minister Taro Aso, 75, among others. His minister for Okinawa, Aiko Shimajiri, lost her seat, along with justice minister Mitsuhide Iwaki. The loss in Okinawa is a slap at a US-Japan plan to relocate a controversial US-marines airbase on the island, reluctant host to the bulk of America's military forces in Japan. Abe said he had won a mandate for his economic policies in the election, although the assertion could be weakened by low turnout. "We were given approval for our mandate to powerfully pursue Abenomics. We’d like to continue with our efforts to achieve what we've promised," he said on TV. Kyodo news agency put turnout at about 54 per cent, a bit above the record low of 52.61 per cent seen in the last upper house poll three years ago. The opposition Democratic Party linked up with three smaller parties, including the Japanese Communist Party, to try to stop the pro-constitutional reform camp getting a super majority. Abe's coalition already has a super-majority in the lower house. Conservatives see the constitution as a humiliating symbol of Japan's defeat in World War II. Its admirers consider it the source of post-war peace and democracy. Revising the charter needs the approval of two-thirds in both houses of parliament and a majority in a public referendum. "We think the constitution is something that puts limits on power, but sadly, that's not what the LDP's (revised draft) does," Yukio Edano, Democratic Party secretary general, said on TV. "If there is no common agreement on this point, then there is no platform on which we can debate individual articles." Surveys show most voters see no need to revise the constitution and the LDP's dovish coalition partner, Komeito, is reluctant to change its pacifist Article 9. The party's secretary-general, Yoshihisa Inoue, said on TV that views in the party on possible changes had "not come together" yet. China's official agency quickly warned that the victory posed a danger to regional stability. Commentaries by the Xinhua news agency are not formal government statements but often reflect official thinking in China, where memories of Japan's past militarism still spark outrage. "With Japan's pacifist constitution at serious stake and Abe's power expanding, it is alarming both for Japan's Asian neighbours, as well as for Japan itself, as Japan's militarisation will serve to benefit neither side," the Xinhua commentary said. Abe said revising the constitution was his Liberal Democratic Party's (LDP) cherished goal, but forging agreement on changes in the diverse pro-revision camp would not be easy. Revisions require a two-thirds majority in both houses of parliament and a majority of votes in a public referendum. "To realise revision of the constitution is my duty as LDP president," Abe told a news conference. "But it is not that easy, so I hope debate will deepen steadily." Experts agreed that building such agreement would be tough. "It's the first time to have two-thirds in both houses of parliament, but you can't find any issue on which the two-thirds can agree," said Gerry Curtis, professor emeritus at New York's Columbia University. Strong Economy, Revised Constitution Some in financial markets worry a focus on the constitution would drain attention from the economy, but Abe promised on Monday to craft a large stimulus package. "A public referendum is needed so he must boost support to advance revision. So for constitutional change as well, he will probably come up with a large-scale economic package," said Daiji Aoki, senior economist at UBS Securities Japan. Doubts about Abe's policies persist even though his ruling bloc won big in terms of the number of seats. Many voters felt they had no other option, given memories of the main opposition Democratic Party's rocky 2009-2012 rule. Others stayed home. Surveys show many Japanese voters are wary of changing the constitution's war-renouncing Article 9, which advocates see as the source of Japan's post-war peace and democracy. Conservatives see it as a symbol of humiliating defeat. If taken literally, Article 9 bans the maintenance of armed forces. Successive governments have interpreted it to allow a military for self-defence, a concept Abe last year stretched to allow Japan's military to aid friendly nations under attack. Formal revision of Article 9 would likely be largely symbolic - though nonetheless historic. Convincing the Komeito party, the dovish junior partner in Abe's LDP-led coalition, to agree would be challenging. The pro-revision camp might therefore tackle another amendment first. One possibility is a clause giving the government more power in a national emergency, a move critics say would curtail civil rights. Another option, floated by the Komeito, would be to add an environmental protection clause. That less contentious step would nonetheless break the political taboo on revision. It is unclear whether that would satisfy Abe's political base. "Conservatives see the constitution as emasculating the nation," said Jeffrey Kingston, director of Asian studies at Temple University in Tokyo. "If I'm in his camp, I'm thinking, this may be my best shot." (Reuters)

Abe wins upper house poll but says changing pacifist constitution not easy

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