Tokyo: Japan’s Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba has announced his resignation after serving less than a year in office. His decision comes after the ruling Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) suffered two major election losses, weakening its long-standing grip on power.
The LDP, which has ruled Japan for most of the past seven decades, lost its majority in the lower house for the first time in 15 years. The setback was followed by another loss in the upper house elections held in July.
According to BBC, Ishiba confirmed he would remain in his post until a new leader is chosen. He said he had wanted to finalize trade negotiations with the United States before stepping down, describing the tariff dispute as a “national crisis.” A deal with Washington was signed last week to ease restrictions on Japanese car exports.
The 68-year-old leader came to power in October 2024, pledging to fight rising prices. But inflation, especially the sharp increase in rice costs, along with public frustration over the high cost of living, damaged his standing. His popularity also suffered due to cabinet appointments that included only two women and criticism over distributing expensive gifts to party members.
Ishiba’s departure leaves Japan facing political uncertainty at a time of economic challenges and rising regional tensions, particularly with China.
