Former health minister Yoichi Masuzoe indicated to reporters Wednesday he will run for Tokyo governor next month.
"I have started seriously considering (running in the election). Essentially, I will run as an independent," Masuzoe, 65, said, implying he will resign from Shinto Kaikaku (New Renaissance Party), which he launched in April 2010 soon after he left the Liberal Democratic Party.
Masuzoe said his main policy pledges will likely include efforts to hold a successful 2020 Olympics and Paralympics, and to enhance the welfare system and disaster preparation.