Hyderabad: Japan PM Shigeru Ishiba stepped down on Sunday, citing internal divisions within the ruling Liberal Democratic Party (LDP). His resignation followed mounting pressure after the party’s defeat in the upper house elections earlier in July.
Japanese broadcaster NHK reported the resignation. Ishiba said he decided to protect the party from further internal strife. Earlier, he had publicly apologised for the LDP’s poor electoral performance and indicated he was considering his future.
Japan PM’s exit triggers new leadership race
Following the election loss, the “Remove Ishiba” movement gained momentum inside the party. Lawmakers and leaders questioned his leadership, significantly weakening his position.
With Ishiba’s departure, the race for new LDP leadership has begun, opening the way for potential successors to step forward. The leadership transition is expected to shape Japan’s political direction in the coming months.
