The battle to become Japan's next leader kicked off Thursday, with several incumbent and former Cabinet members suggesting they intend to run in the ruling Liberal Democratic Party's leadership election next month a day after Prime Minister Fumio Kishida's sudden announcement that he will not stand.Chief Cabinet Secretary Yoshimasa Hayashi quoted the outgoing premier as saying all ministers are free to participate in the race, although the top government spokesman, who is seen as close to Kishida, declined to say whether he will do so.Digital Minister Taro Kono and Economic Security Ministe…READ FULL ARTICLE