Ex-Japan defence chief mum on whether he'll join PM race
Japan's ruling Liberal Democratic Party lawmaker Shigeru Ishiba poses in front of posters at his office after an interview with Reuters in Tokyo, Japan August 31, 2020. REUTERS/Kim Kyung-Hoon
Ishiba, a rare LDP critic of Abe, said he was popular because he presented a break from the current administration, underscoring his differences with long-time Abe aide Yoshihide Suga, a key contender backed by several LDP factions. “For example, does Japan have a relationship of trust with Malaysia, Indonesia, Vietnam, the Philippines or Singapore?” asked Ishiba. “We must build political, cultural or security relationships of trust with Asia,” he added.
He also expressed concern about the lack communication with North Korea: “We should create liaison offices in Tokyo and Pyongyang,” he said.Ishiba said the “Abenomics” stimulus policy was not sustainable, although he saw no need to drastically change the current policy, including monetary easing, “for the time being”.
“The merit of the sales tax is to secure stable revenue ... but the role of the sales tax must be reviewed when we consider how to boost disposable incomes of low-income households.”Ishiba highlighted the differences between him and Abe’s right-hand man, Chief Cabinet Secretary Suga. “People still want an LDP government, but after Mr. Abe has resigned they’re asking: ‘who’s got a different style?’,” said Ishiba. “I’ve continuously challenged Abe and I have more support than those who haven’t. This is not based on performance, but on expectations,” said Ishiba.
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