Japan's LDP Announces Nine Candidates for Prime Minister

The race to replace outgoing Prime Minister Fumio Kishida features a diverse slate of candidates, including two women and several prominent political figures.

The Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) will vote on September 27 to choose the successor to Prime Minister Fumio Kishida.
Shinjiro Koizumi, son of a former prime minister, and former defense minister Shigeru Ishiba lead in public opinion polls.
Hard-right candidate Sanae Takaichi and current foreign minister Yoko Kamikawa are among the two women vying for the position.
Candidates are focusing on economic reforms, security policies, and addressing Japan's declining population.
Speculation suggests the new leader may call for a snap general election following the LDP vote.