TOKYO -- Prime Minister Shinzo Abe's abrupt resignation has thrust the ruling Liberal Democratic Party into a scramble to pick the next leader. With the longest-reigning Japanese leader having no heir apparent, the race is likely to be fought among some of his closest deputies, along with an archrival who has long vied for the post.
Japan after Abe
Japan succession race kicks off, starring Abe's deputies and rival
Right-hand man Suga, longtime anchor of government, seen as a possible successor