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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Chennai: Vaibhav Suryavanshi, a 13-year-old left-handed opener, made history on Tuesday by scoring the fastest century in U19 Tests for India during the ongoing youth Test match against Australia.
Batting in the first innings for India at M.A. Chidambaram stadium, Vaibhav got to his hundred in only 58 deliveries before being run out for 104. His record-making innings constituted 14 fours and 4 sixes.
The 13-year-old prodigy's 58-ball hundred is only behind former England all-rounder Moeen Ali, who hit a 56-ball hundred for England U19 in 2005.
Vaibhav made headlines last year when he became the youngest debutant in Ranji Trophy history, playing at the age of 12 for Bihar, surpassing the record held by Sachin Tendulkar and Yuvraj Singh.
