Japan's new PM Ishiba set to be formally anointed, unveil cabinet

1/10/2024 12:16

        Shigeru Ishiba was set to be voted in by parliament as Japan's next prime minister on Tuesday and unveil his cabinet as he seeks to heal party divisions and prepare for an Oct. 27 snap election.
        
        The 67-year-old former defence minister, who won a close-fought contest to lead the ruling Liberal Democratic Party last week, is virtually assured of being formerly designated premier due to his party's majority in parliament.
        
        The result of the vote is expected around 1:40 p.m. which will then be followed by the Emperor formally appointing Ishiba, and his cabinet, in a ceremony at Tokyo's Imperial Palace. Ishiba is also expected to hold a late press conference on Tuesday.
        
        The veteran lawmaker, seen as somewhat of an outsider in his party who failed at four previous leadership bids, has already begun picking government and party officials who will contest the upcoming general election with him.