Japanese PM Kishida Boosts Female Representation, Retains Finance & Trade Ministers in Cabinet Overhaul

Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida has decided to retain his finance and trade ministers as part of a Cabinet reshuffle aimed at refreshing the government's image while maintaining a team capable of swiftly introducing economic stimulus measures. Kishida's approval ratings have been impacted by rising prices that outpace wage increases, prompting him to plan substantial economic initiatives to address the issue.

Finance Minister Shunichi Suzuki and Economy, Trade, and Industry Minister Yasutoshi Nishimura will continue in their roles. To underscore a shift toward economic expansion through investment, Kishida will appoint Yoshitaka Shindo, a former vice minister at the Ministry of Economy, Trade, and Industry, as the new minister for economic revitalization.

In a bid to promote gender diversity and following a trend observed with previous prime ministers, Kishida's Cabinet reshuffle includes five women, equaling a previous record. Notably, Yoko Kamikawa will serve as the foreign minister.

Additionally, the reshuffle will see the inclusion of eleven new ministers, while Deputy Chief Cabinet Secretary Seiji Kihara will be replaced.

Kishida's overarching goal is to strengthen the Cabinet's budgetary stance and facilitate economic growth through increased investment. As he leads the Liberal Democratic Party, he faces the challenge of maintaining his popularity, especially in light of a looming party leadership vote in the next year.

This Cabinet overhaul follows Kishida's recent expansion and extension of subsidies for gasoline, a move aimed at bolstering his support among the populace.

Prime Minister Kishida emphasized his determination to take swift action, stating, "I want to carry out bold economic measures," during a press briefing in India, where he was attending the Group of 20 summit. He stressed the need to commence these measures urgently, aligning with his commitment to revitalizing the nation's economy.

This reshuffle signifies Kishida's dedication to addressing economic challenges, stimulating growth, and maintaining a competitive edge on both the domestic and international fronts.