Japan’s Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba announced his resignation less than a year after taking office, following two significant election defeats. This decision was made a day before the Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) was expected to vote on a possible internal leadership challenge that could have led to his removal.
Under Ishiba’s leadership, the LDP—which has been in power for nearly seven decades—lost its majority in the lower house of Parliament for the first time in 15 years and subsequently lost its majority in the upper house in July. Japan, as the world’s fourth-largest economy and a key ally of the United States, is now facing a period of political uncertainty amid rising tensions with China and growing regional insecurity.
In his statement, Ishiba noted that recent negotiations regarding US tariff measures had concluded, stating it was an appropriate time for his resignation. He referred to a deal signed last week that aimed to reduce tariffs imposed by former President Donald Trump on Japanese automobiles and other exports. Until his resignation, Ishiba had resisted calling it quits, emphasizing the importance of resolving the US tariff issue as a national responsibility.
The 68-year-old Prime Minister expressed his intention to continue fulfilling his duties until a new leader is selected. Ishiba had assumed office in October 2024, pledging to address rising prices and economic challenges. However, he struggled to gain public confidence as Japan dealt with inflation, including a notable increase in rice prices, and faced criticism over various controversies. These included his decision to appoint only two women to his cabinet and the distribution of costly gifts to party members.
Source: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c98edpz2yn9o?at_medium=RSS&at_campaign=rss