Key Facts
• On November 19, Aso Taro reaffirmed his role as the ‘creator’ of the Takaichi Cabinet.
• Aso expressed concerns about the coalition with the Japan Innovation Party, calling it ‘not optimistic.’
• In the October LDP leadership election, Takaichi Sanae led in party member votes but faced a tight runoff.
• Aso’s faction strategically supported Takaichi by influencing votes from other candidates’ camps.
• Key figures like Kobayashi Takayuki and Motegi Toshimitsu shifted their support to Takaichi in the runoff.
• Aso criticized Takaichi’s handling of the Komeito coalition withdrawal, calling her unprepared.
• Despite high approval ratings, Takaichi’s administration faces risks, including worsening Japan-China relations.
• Aso’s remarks suggest he may seek new alliances if Takaichi’s popularity declines.
Summary
Aso Taro, Vice President of Japan’s Liberal Democratic Party (LDP), recently reiterated his pivotal role in establishing the Takaichi Sanae Cabinet. While publicly supporting the administration, Aso has expressed private criticisms, particularly regarding Takaichi’s handling of the Komeito coalition withdrawal. During the October LDP leadership election, Aso’s strategic maneuvering helped Takaichi secure victory in a tight runoff, leveraging his faction’s influence to gain support from other candidates’ camps. However, Aso’s recent comments highlight his dissatisfaction with Takaichi’s political foresight and suggest he may consider shifting alliances if her administration falters. Despite Takaichi’s high approval ratings, challenges such as deteriorating Japan-China relations pose significant risks. Aso’s dual stance underscores the complex dynamics within Japan’s political landscape.
