The Center Reform Union announced its leadership election on the morning of the 12th, following the resignation of co-leaders Yoshihiko Noda and Tetsuo Saito after a disappointing performance in recent elections. Taku Shina, age 59, from Iwate's first district, and Junya Ogawa, age 54, from Kagawa's first district, are the two candidates vying for leadership. Their campaign focuses on revitalizing the party and fostering unity with coalition partners like the Komeito party, emphasizing the need for immediate restructuring to overcome electoral setbacks.

In a joint press conference after registration, Shina declared that he must lead the party in raising the banner for centrist values, emphasizing a commitment to future generations and the democratic process in Japan. He committed to developing a new social security model and pragmatic foreign and defense policies that will resonate with the current generation. Ogawa echoed this sentiment, emphasizing his desire to restore the people's quality of life as a top priority, advocating for structural reforms in response to societal challenges such as a declining population and rising prices.

The absence of candidates from the Komeito faction, which accounts for 28 party members, leaves the election largely focused on Shina and Ogawa. The party leadership initially considered requiring endorsements from ten lawmakers for candidacy but dropped this condition due to concerns about participation numbers. The upcoming voting by the 49 party members is crucial, as it aims to set a clear direction for the future of the party amidst significant challenges and public discontent.