Japan’s Prime Minister Takaichi may retain key ministers — The Japan Times
Japan’s Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi is considering keeping Toshimitsu Motegi as foreign minister and Satsuki Katayama as finance minister during a cabinet reshuffle expected in mid-September. This was reported by The Japan Times, citing sources in the administration.
Retention of key officials
Takaichi plans to retain key members of the government and leadership of the ruling Liberal Democratic Party, which she heads. According to the publication, the prime minister believes that Motegi and Katayama need to remain in their current positions to ensure consistency in foreign and fiscal policy.
Since being appointed foreign minister, Motegi has actively visited other countries and repeatedly met with U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio. These contacts were part of Tokyo’s efforts to establish cooperation with the administration of U.S. President Donald Trump.
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Motegi also retains some support within the Liberal Democratic Party, including among members of the disbanded intraparty faction he led. He has good relations with party Vice President Taro Aso, who is one of the key supporters of the Takaichi administration and is also expected to retain his post.
Possible reshuffle in September
Katayama enjoys Takaichi’s considerable trust and supports the government’s declared policy of active but responsible fiscal policy. The prime minister also plans to assign her responsibility for parliamentary consideration of a bill to lower the consumption tax rate on food products. An extraordinary parliamentary session may take place in early October.
Takaichi is considering carrying out a reshuffle in the government and the leadership of the Liberal Democratic Party as early as September 16–18. Party Secretary-General Shunichi Suzuki and Chief Cabinet Secretary Minoru Kihara are likely to remain in their positions.
