Fukuda Wins Party Vote to Become Japan's Next Leader

Japan's ruling party elected Yasuo Fukuda, a moderate conservative, as its new leader yesterday following the sudden resignation of the prime minister, Shinzo Abe, earlier this month.

Mr Fukuda, 71, who is expected to replace Mr Abe as prime minister tomorrow, pledged to revive the Liberal Democratic party (LDP) after its devastating defeat in July's upper house election, and to continue Japan's logistical contribution to the US-led war on terror.

"You have chosen me even though I do not have much experience," he told fellow party MPs. "I will work to revitalize the LDP, win back public trust, and push forward with my policies."

Mr Fukuda easily defeated his opponent, the former foreign minister Taro Aso, winning 330 votes to Mr Aso's 197. He is assured of the premiership because of the LDP's large majority in the lower house.

The LDP's popularity plummeted during the administration of Mr Abe, who remains in hospital after being admitted with a stress-related stomach illness the day after he announced his resignation. Four cabinet members resigned and one committed suicide in a year marked by gaffes, scandals and policy indecision.

The party is looking to Mr Fukuda, who quietly distanced himself from the Abe government, to address economic disparities and resolve a pensions debacle that resulted in the loss of more than 50m premium records.

The dovish policy expert promised to improve relations with China, and is expected to adopt a more flexible approach towards North Korea. But his biggest challenge will be persuading opposition parties to back an extension to Japan's refueling role in the Indian Ocean, in support of US forces operating in Afghanistan. "We need to show our intention to continue the mission as a message to international society," Mr Fukuda said.