Former defence minister Shigeru Ishiba succeeds in fifth bid to become Japan PM
Fifth time's the charm for former Japanese defence minister Shigeru Ishiba, who looks set to become the next prime minister after winning a close-fought contest to lead the ruling Liberal Democratic Party. The 67-year-old was in a tight match with Sanae Takaichi, who had hoped to become Japan's first female prime minister. The race was seen as one of the most unpredictable in decades, with a record nine candidates. Mr Ishiba is set to be sworn in as the 102nd prime minister next Tuesday, as outgoing leader Fumio Kishida officially steps down. Michiyo Ishida reports.
Fifth time's the charm for former Japanese defence minister Shigeru Ishiba, who looks set to become the next prime minister after winning a close-fought contest to lead the ruling Liberal Democratic Party. The 67-year-old was in a tight match with Sanae Takaichi, who had hoped to become Japan's first female prime minister. The race was seen as one of the most unpredictable in decades, with a record nine candidates. Mr Ishiba is set to be sworn in as the 102nd prime minister next Tuesday, as outgoing leader Fumio Kishida officially steps down. Michiyo Ishida reports.