TOKYO (Reuters) – Japanese government spokesman Yoshihide Suga is the voters’ favourite to succeed Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, according to a poll published by the daily Mainichi Shimbun on Thursday.
Yoshihide Suga is the front-runner to replace Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, who abruptly announced his resignation due to health concerns, according to a recent opinion poll. Many consider Suga to be a continuity candidate, one who will probably carry on Abe’s programs and ideas while serving as Chief Cabinet Secretary.
The Kyodo News poll indicates that Suga is the preferred choice of voters above likely opponents Fumio Kishida, the former foreign minister, and Shigeru Ishiba, the former defense minister. Due to his extensive experience and crucial role in managing government policies and communications during Abe’s administration, Suga is very well-liked.
Yoshihide Suga, a 71-year-old politician, is regarded as competent and down to earth. Because of his ability to maneuver in complex political contexts and his power behind the scenes, he has received respect from both political parties. Given that Suga’s background is so different from that of the traditional political class in Japan, a large number of ordinary voters empathize with him. He is the son of a strawberry farmer who rose through the ranks without the help of a political family.
Voters seeking stability and continuity in leadership have been reassured by Suga’s consistent and trustworthy presence in the government. In his role as Chief Cabinet Secretary, Suga has played a significant role in addressing a number of national challenges, such as the COVID-19 pandemic response and the execution of economic measures meant to stimulate Japan’s economy.
On September 14, the Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) will hold its leadership election. The LDP’s majority in Japan’s lower house of parliament means that the winner of this election will effectively become prime minister. Suga needs the support of significant party factions even though he has a significant advantage going into the election due to his strong polling position.
The next prime minister’s selection will be critical as Japan navigates difficult times, like as managing the ongoing pandemic and economic recovery. The selection of voters for Suga is indicative of their need for seasoned and dependable leadership to steer the nation through its present difficulties.
Suga has declared that, should he be elected, he will implement Abe’s principal programs, including the “Abenomics” economic plan and measures to strengthen Japan’s diplomatic ties with other countries. His top responsibilities will likely be to ensure that the handover proceeds smoothly and to continue the existing administration’s projects.
The weeks ahead will be critical as candidates manage their campaigns and present their platforms for Japan’s future. Due to his domination in the polls, Suga is currently the front-runner; but, political climates are subject to change, so if he want to lead the LDP and become prime minister of Japan, he will need to garner support.
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