Japan's Liberal Democratic Party is set to choose its new president on Saturday, a decision that could determine the nation's next prime minister.
The ruling party faces significant challenges, including loss of parliamentary majorities and growing appeal of opposition groups amid public discontent over rising prices.
Shinjiro Koizumi, the 44-year-old farm minister, emerges as a leading candidate alongside Sanae Takaichi and Yoshimasa Hayashi.
The LDP has dominated postwar politics but now grapples with internal decay and voter shifts toward parties like the Democratic Party for the People and Sanseito.
Takaichi, a conservative nationalist, proposes aggressive economic spending and potential revisions to deals with the United States, which could unsettle investors given Japan's substantial debt.
In contrast, Koizumi and Hayashi plan to adhere to Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba's fiscal policies, focusing on wage increases and inflation relief within established constraints.
The election involves votes from 295 LDP lawmakers and an equal number from grassroots members.
A first-round majority is unlikely among the five contenders, leading to a runoff where lawmakers' votes carry more weight.
Polls indicate Koizumi or Hayashi may hold an edge over Takaichi in such a scenario.
Koizumi has moderated his reformist stance from last year's unsuccessful bid, emphasizing consensus-building across party lines.
He now seeks support from veterans, including former rivals, to unify a divided LDP.
His experience as farm minister, where he addressed rice price issues decisively, has bolstered his profile.
Critics note his youth and past inexperience, though endorsements highlight his growing maturity and broad appeal.
Takaichi's bold vision offers potential disruption but risks alienating moderates.
Hayashi, a centrist with extensive portfolios, provides steady leadership.
The outcome, expected around 0630 GMT, will test the party's ability to reset amid eroding trust.
A new leader must navigate coalition needs and public demands for economic stability.