Shigeru Ishiba elected as Japan’s new Prime Minister
Tokyo: Shigeru Ishiba, 67, leader of Japan's ruling Liberal Democratic Party (LDP), has been elected as the new Prime Minister by the House of Representatives. Ishiba, who secured the LDP presidency last week, was endorsed by the ruling coalition-controlled lower house and is set to replace Fumio Kishida, who decided not to run again amid a slush fund scandal that has tarnished the party’s image.
This marks Ishiba’s fifth attempt at the LDP leadership, where he emerged victorious by defeating Economic Security Minister Sanae Takaichi in a closely contested runoff. Ishiba garnered 215 votes, surpassing Takaichi's 194. His tenure begins amid significant challenges, with a pressing need to restore public trust in the LDP.
In his first announcement as party leader, Ishiba declared plans to dissolve the lower house on October 9, with general elections scheduled for October 27. This move has been criticised by opposition parties, who described it as "disrespectful" and "unconstitutional" since it came before Ishiba’s formal election as Prime Minister.
Ishiba’s rise to the highest office has been marked by a steady ascent through various roles within the LDP. His political career began in 1986 when he was elected to the House of Representatives. Over the years, he has held positions such as Minister of Agriculture, Forestry, and Fisheries, and Minister of Defence. Known for his independent stance and policy expertise, Ishiba has often been at odds with party leadership, notably during his rivalry with former Prime Minister Shinzo Abe.
With a focus on transparency and accountability, Ishiba has pledged to rebuild the LDP’s image and prioritize national security. "I will dedicate myself to making Japan a safer country," he said following his election.
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Pope Leo XIV blasts 'delusion of omnipotence' fueling the US-Israeli war in Iran
Rome AP: In his strongest words yet, Pope Leo XIV on Saturday denounced the “delusion of omnipotence” that is fueling the US-Israel war in Iran and demanded political leaders stop and negotiate peace.
Leo presided over an evening prayer service in St. Peter's Basilica on the same day the United States and Iran began face-to-face negotiations in Pakistan and as a fragile ceasefire held.
History's first US-born pope didn't mention the United States or President Donald Trump in his prayer, which was planned before the talks were announced. But Leo's tone and message appeared directed at Trump and US officials, who have boasted of US military superiority and justified the war in religious terms.
“Enough of the idolatry of self and money!” Leo demanded. “Enough of the display of power! Enough of war!”
