Japan’s Economic Revitalization Minister Akazawa Supports PM Ishiba for Early LDP Race, Advocates Minimum Wage Hike

Ryosei Akazawa, Japan's Minister for Economic Revitalization and a close ally of Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba, has publicly expressed his support for Ishiba should the ruling Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) call for an early leadership election. Akazawa, who represents Tottori Prefecture like Ishiba, emphasized his pride in backing Ishiba, referring to himself as Ishiba's deputy. This endorsement comes amid ongoing political discussions within the LDP, with some critics questioning whether Ishiba's opponents can muster enough support to trigger a leadership race. Meanwhile, Akazawa has been actively engaged in economic matters, including discussions on raising the national minimum wage. He recently met with Fukuoka Governor Seitaro Hattori to exchange views on the minimum wage, advocating for a nationwide increase and positioning Fukuoka as a leading example in this effort. Public opinion polls conducted by Jiji Press between August 8 and 11 show former Minister Sanae Takaichi leading as the preferred next prime minister among LDP supporters with 15.9%, while Ishiba ranks second. Within the party, some members like Shigeharu Aoyama have criticized Ishiba’s political alliances, particularly his perceived cooperation with opposition figures, which they view unfavorably.