Japan ruling party to choose next PM on Sept 27: media

Japan’s ruling Liberal Democratic Party announced it will select a new leader on September 27, following Prime Minister Fumio Kishida’s decision to step down amid low approval ratings. Campaigning begins September 12. Kishida, in office since 2021, faced criticism over rising prices and scandals but gained international praise for his foreign policy. Potential successors include party veterans and rising stars, with the possibility of Japan’s first female premier. AFP