The LDP's leadership vote is weeks away, but the race could already be over

This year's biggest political event in Japan is undoubtedly the ruling Liberal Democratic Party presidential election, set for September, which will determine the fate of Prime Minister Shinzo Abe.

But the political drama may already be over, even before the curtain has been raised.

At present few within the LDP's ranks question Abe's victory, as most major intraparty factions have shown their support for him in the race, slated to take place on Sept. 20. According to a survey by Kyodo News conducted until July 29, at least 310 of the LDP's 405 lawmakers responded that they will vote for Abe in the party presidential election, making Abe's victory almost certain — and allowing him to also retain his post as prime minister.