InsideJapan News Network

Taro Aso has been speaking of his own capabilities as the Liberal Democratic party seeks a new leader.

Prime minister Yasuo Fukuda stepped down yesterday, leaving the country and the ruling party without a leader - a gap which the secretary general appears willing to fill.

According to Japan Today, Mr Aso told reporters that his previous close work with the outgoing leader makes him - particularly on the recently unveiled emergency economic package - makes him "qualified" to run for the position.

Mar Aso has served in a number of government offices, including ministerial posts in the departments for foreign affairs, internal affairs and communications, and economic and fiscal policy.

Former defence minister Yuriko Koike and one-time premier Junichiro Koizumi have been mooted as candidates in the September 22nd leadership elections, though the latter is said to have ruled himself out.


Related news stories:
Aso to visit Obama in Washington (24th February 2009)
Aso pledges job creation (28th January 2009)
Minister's resignation increases pressure on Aso (13th January 2009)
Aso apologises for gaffe about Japan's OAPs (28th November 2008)