Japan's LDP turns to old playbook to pick new leader

Linda Sieg covered Japanese politics, economics and social issues at Reuters in Tokyo for over three decades, most recently as chief political correspondent. She is currently freelancing.

With pledges to be "reborn" and regain public trust, a record nine candidates, ranging from self-styled reformers to hawkish nationalists, are vying to become the new leader of Japan's long-ruling Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) -- and hence prime minister -- in a chaotic Sept. 27 party poll.