Japan's ruling party secretary general likely to stay on in execs reshuffle

Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi is likely to maintain Shunichi Suzuki as the secretary general of her Liberal Democratic Party in an upcoming leadership reshuffle, according to government sources. Reappointing Suzuki, brother-in-law of former Prime Minister Taro Aso, would help secure Aso's support, which is crucial for Takaichi as she prepares for the upcoming LDP presidential election and strives to maintain control of the party.

The prime minister, who may also reshuffle the Cabinet in mid-September, will decide the changes based on Aso's and Suzuki's intentions. This would be the first major leadership overhaul since Takaichi assumed the party's leadership and became Prime Minister in October. As the LDP's victory in the February House of Representatives election was substantial, Suzuki's role as secretary general remains unaffected.

Chief Cabinet Secretary Minoru Kihara is expected to retain his position as the top government spokesman. The reshuffles are anticipated to follow the approval of a tax reform plan, which includes a two-year reduction in the consumption tax rate for food and beverages from 8 percent to 1 percent, starting April. Aso, who leads the LDP's sole remaining faction, previously supported Takaichi in the previous leadership race.

The other factions disbanded following a high-profile slush fund scandal in late 2023, significantly impacting the party. Takaichi is also expected to invite members of the Japan Innovation Party, the LDP's junior coalition ally since last October, to assume ministerial posts, including senior vice minister and parliamentary vice minister positions.