Japan PM contender Kono wants stimulus to focus on energy, 5G

Japan's Vaccine Minister Taro Kono, who is running to replace Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga, attends a group interview in Tokyo, Japan September 16, 2021. REUTERS/Kim Kyung-Hoon

TOKYO (Reuters) - Japan's vaccine minister Taro Kono, running to replace Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga, said on Thursday any new economic stimulus measures should prioritise spending on renewable energy and expansion of 5G networks nationwide.

Suga's abrupt decision two weeks ago to step down set off a flurry of campaigning among senior figures of his Liberal Democratic Party (LDP).