Prime Minister Takaichi to conduct cabinet reshuffle in September

Prime Minister Takaichi is expected to conduct her first cabinet reshuffle and Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) leadership reorganization in mid-to-late September. The LDP has begun distributing surveys to Diet members, specifically those elected at least twice, asking them to list up to five preferred government or party positions. The deadline for these responses is August 25.

Key points of interest in the upcoming personnel changes include whether Secretary-General Suzuki, the brother-in-law of Vice President Aso, will remain in his post. The reshuffle is also expected to address the roles of political rivals from the previous leadership election, such as Defense Minister Koizumi, Minister of Internal Affairs Hayashi, and Foreign Minister Motegi. Additionally, there are indications that members from the Japan Innovation Party may be appointed to cabinet positions. The timing of the reshuffle is likely to coincide with the cabinet decision on tax reforms and around the Prime Minister's scheduled visit to the United States for the United Nations General Assembly.