Former Chief Cabinet Secretary Katsunobu Kato has informed his aides about his intention to participate in the Liberal Democratic Party’s presidential election on September 27, according to sources. It is highly likely that Kato, who is 68 years old, will secure the necessary endorsements from at least 20 LDP lawmakers. With Kato’s entry into the race, the total number of expected candidates for the presidency will reach eight.
Kato has a strong political background, having been elected seven times in Okayama Constituency No. 5 before it was later rezoned to Constituency No. 3 in the House of Representatives. He has held various important positions such as health, labor and welfare minister, chief cabinet secretary, and chairman of the LDP General Council.
This would be Kato’s first time running for president. He is a member of a policy group that was previously known as the Motegi faction. Toshimitsu Motegi, who is currently serving as Secretary General and after whom the faction was named, is also expected to join the election.
When asked about his candidacy by reporters at LDP headquarters on Friday, Kato stated that he needs to make preparations for the upcoming election and is actively working towards it. However, he has not yet decided when he will officially announce his candidacy.
Several other candidates have already declared their intention to run for president including former economic security minister Takayuki Kobayashi (49), former LDP Secretary General Shigeru Ishiba (67), and digital minister Taro Kono (61). Additionally, Chief Cabinet Secretary Yoshimasa Hayashi (63), former Environment Minister Shinjiro Koizumi (43), and economic security minister Sanae Takaichi (63) are also expected to announce their candidacies soon.