Key Facts
• On October 9, 2025, Sanae Takaichi appeared live on “Hodo Station.”
• Takaichi denied claims that Taro Aso instructed his faction to vote for her.
• Aso reportedly suggested two other candidates in the first round of voting.
• For the runoff, Aso advised voting for the candidate with the most party votes.
• Takaichi emphasized her focus on party unity over individual endorsements.
• Criticism arose over Takaichi’s reliance on Aso’s faction for key appointments.
• She defended appointing Haruko Arimura and Takako Suzuki based on merit.
• Takaichi dismissed speculation about Aso’s intentions during the election.
• The Liberal Democratic Party faces scrutiny over internal factional dynamics.
Summary
Sanae Takaichi, leader of Japan’s Liberal Democratic Party, addressed allegations regarding Taro Aso’s influence during the party’s leadership election. Speaking on “Hodo Station,” Takaichi clarified that Aso never explicitly instructed his faction to vote for her. Instead, he suggested other candidates in the first round and advised voting for the candidate with the most party votes in the runoff. Takaichi dismissed speculation about Aso’s intentions, emphasizing her focus on party unity. Despite criticism of her reliance on Aso’s faction, she defended her appointments of Haruko Arimura and Takako Suzuki, citing their individual qualifications. The party continues to face scrutiny over its internal factional dynamics.
