Japan's LDP Announces Candidates to Replace PM Kishida

Japan's ruling Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) has named nine candidates for its September 27 election to replace outgoing Prime Minister Fumio Kishida. Each candidate must garner support from 20 other LDP lawmakers. Post-election, Japan's parliament will convene to elect a new prime minister, who may call a snap general election.

Japan's ruling Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) unveiled on Thursday its list of nine candidates vying for the position of party leader and, subsequently, prime minister, to replace the outgoing Fumio Kishida.

To qualify, each candidate has secured backing from at least 20 other LDP lawmakers. They will commence a series of public appearances, beginning with a nationally televised debate on Saturday.

The election process will take place on September 27 at the LDP headquarters in Tokyo. Each of the party's 369 lawmakers will cast their votes, alongside an equal number of votes from polled rank-and-file members. If no candidate secures a majority, a runoff vote will be held.

Following the party vote, Japan's parliament will convene, likely in early October, to elect the new prime minister, who will appoint key officials and may call for a snap general election. Media reports suggest such an election could occur as early as October 27.

(With inputs from agencies.)