(MENAFN) Japanese Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries Minister Shinjiro Koizumi formally announced on Tuesday his candidacy in the Liberal Democratic Party (LDP)'s leadership contest to determine the successor to Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba.

During a press conference held after a cabinet session, Koizumi disclosed that he had already communicated his decision to his political support group over the past weekend.

Koizumi highlighted the critical need to preserve unity within the party and asserted that responding to public anxieties—especially the surge in everyday expenses—must be the party’s foremost responsibility. He said the most important task for the party is to address issues that people are anxious about, including rising prices.

He also shared that Finance Minister Katsunobu Kato, a contender in last year’s leadership race, has agreed to lead his campaign, according to media.

The contest to replace Ishiba is becoming increasingly competitive. Former Foreign Minister Toshimitsu Motegi declared his candidacy last week. Other likely entrants include former Economic Security Minister Takayuki Kobayashi, Chief Cabinet Secretary Yoshimasa Hayashi, and former Economic Security Minister Sanae Takaichi.

The LDP will conduct a full-scale leadership election on October 4, incorporating votes from both party lawmakers and grassroots members.

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