Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba has announced his resignation, bowing to mounting pressure within the ruling Liberal Democratic Party (LDP). Reports suggest the decision was made to prevent further division inside the party.
In the July elections, Ishiba’s LDP-led coalition suffered a historic defeat, losing its majority in the upper house. Although he initially dismissed speculation about stepping down, sustained party pressure ultimately forced his hand.
Ishiba maintained that his primary objective as prime minister was to secure the implementation of a tariff agreement with the United States. However, the recent electoral setback has significantly weakened the LDP’s influence in both chambers of parliament, making it increasingly difficult for the government to pursue its policy agenda.
According to reports by Reuters, Al Jazeera, and CNN, Ishiba agreed to resign following a Saturday evening meeting with the agriculture minister and a former prime minister.
Sources: Reuters, Al Jazeera, CNN