Role of Japan's former leaders in spotlight after Abe's death

Longtime PM's legacy looms large over Kishida's leadership reshuffle

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Shinzo Abe wielded significant political influence even after stepping down as prime minister in 2020. © Reuters

NAOYA YOSHINO, Nikkei political editor

TOKYO -- As Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida fills his new cabinet and senior leadership posts in the ruling Liberal Democratic Party, the handling of party elders who previously led the country will likely draw attention.

The reshuffle, following a landslide victory in Sunday's upper house election, comes as Japan reels from the assassination of former Prime Minister Shinzo Abe. There is significant interest in not only who will be tapped from Abe's LDP faction, but also whether Kishida appoints former prime ministers to key posts.

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