Four contenders are making their pitch to lead the Constitutional Democratic Party, Japan’s largest opposition party.
The candidates are Noda Yoshihiko, a former prime minister; Edano Yukio, a former president of the party; current leader Izumi Kenta; and Yoshida Harumi, a rookie lawmaker.
The four will hold debates for more than two weeks to lay out their strategies to challenge the ruling coalition. Topics will likely include boosting cooperation among members of the opposition bloc.
Economic and financial policy, including the consumption tax, as well as defense and foreign policy could also be on the agenda.
Diet lawmakers, local assembly members and general members of the party will vote on September 23, after 17 days of campaigning.