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Japan's LDP Faces Leadership Change Amid Economic Turmoil

10/1/2025

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Summary

Story summary

LDP will hold a leadership election on October 4 after Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba's resignation.
Agriculture Minister Shinjiro Koizumi and Sanae Takaichi lead; Takaichi could become Japan's first female prime minister.
They face inflation above 2%, slim majority, and dissatisfaction with the LDP's economic handling.
Debt at 264% of GDP and rising rates heighten fiscal stability concerns and spending.

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Story summary

LDP will hold a leadership election on October 4 after Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba's resignation.
Agriculture Minister Shinjiro Koizumi and Sanae Takaichi lead; Takaichi could become Japan's first female prime minister.
They face inflation above 2%, slim majority, and dissatisfaction with the LDP's economic handling.
Debt at 264% of GDP and rising rates heighten fiscal stability concerns and spending.