Japan's ruling Liberal Democratic Party has initially set the presidential election on Sept. 22 to elect Prime Minister Yasuo Fukuda's successor, party official said Tuesday.

According to Japanese law, the leader of the ruling party will naturally become prime minister of the government with the approval of the Diet.

LDP Secretary General and former Foreign Minister Taro Aso is widely seen as the front-runner in the race. The popular politician has made clear his willingness to take part in the election.

LDP senior official said that official campaigning for the election is expected to start Sept. 10.

Fukuda was elected president of the LDP, defeating Aso, and assumed the premiership last September.

(Xinhua News Agency September 2, 2008)