Who can replace Shinzo Abe as Japan's Prime Minister in the future?

This morning (January 6), at a press conference, when answering a question from Yomiuri TV regarding "whether or not he strives to become a future Prime Minister", Mr. Fumio Kishida, Head of the Policy Department of the ruling Liberal Democratic Party (LDP), affirmed that he always has the mindset of doing his best every day as a politician.

If he becomes Prime Minister, he pledges to maintain the country's growth potential, passing on to the next generation a proud and wealthy society.

However, he did not mention whether or not he would participate in the Prime Ministerial election this fall (expected in September), he only expressed his welcome to all candidates who will run.

“Thinking about consistent policies through the election of the Prime Minister or some other political path is welcome. However, before the election, it is impossible to say anything clearly about one’s actions,” Mr. Kishida said.

He also added that in the context of the tense North Korean issue and many unclear issues, it is not the right time to make any decision.
Mr. Fumio Kishida was born on July 29, 1957, is an experienced politician in Japan. He is a member of the House of Representatives of the Liberal Democratic Party in the Japanese Parliament. He served as the State Secretary for Okinawa and was in charge of the Northern Territories. When Mr. Shinzo Abe became Prime Minister of Japan in December 2015, Mr. Fumio Kishida was chosen as the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Japan.

Through many Cabinet reshuffles, Mr. Kishida is still trusted by Prime Minister Abe for his contributions in implementing an open foreign policy, helping Mr. Abe win the House of Representatives election.

In the most recent Cabinet reshuffle in 2017, Mr. Kishida moved to become the head of the LDP's policy committee - a very important position.

Public opinion believes that Mr. Kishida will become Prime Minister of Japan in the future./.