Japan’s PM Ishiba Shigeru to Step Down After Election Setbacks

Japan’s Prime Minister Ishiba Shigeru announced on Sunday that he has decided to step down from his post. The decision comes just over a month after his party suffered a major election defeat in Japan’s parliament, according to Japanese media reports. Ishiba, leader of the Liberal Democratic Party (LDP), had earlier said he would stay on to prevent a political deadlock. He stressed that the country was facing a “national crisis” with rising household costs and the risk of US tariffs, making strong leadership essential.

Major Election Defeat

In July, Ishiba’s governing alliance faced a major defeat in Japan’s upper house of parliament. The coalition failed to secure a majority, following another setback last year when it also lost its majority in the lower house.Despite the setbacks, Ishiba initially pledged to remain in leadership to avoid what he termed a “political gridlock.

Responsibility and Pressure to Resign

Even while admitting his “heavy responsibility” for the poor results, Ishiba repeatedly said he would not resign. In August, as calls for his departure grew, he again confirmed his decision to stay. This happened just before the LDP held an important meeting to review the electoral setback, Kyodo News reported.

Possible Early Leadership Vote

According to Kyodo News, LDP leaders disclosed during a joint meeting of party lawmakers from both houses that the party’s election committee is considering an early leadership vote. This vote, originally set for 2027, could now be held sooner due to the growing pressure on Ishiba’s leadership.

Decline in Coalition Seats

At an informal meeting in July, many party members had already urged Ishiba to take responsibility and step down. The LDP-Komeito ruling coalition saw its upper house seats fall from 141 to 122 in the 248-member chamber, losing its simple majority. While the upper house holds less power than the lower house, it remains key to passing legislation.