Tokyo, Sept 7, 2025 – In a dramatic turn of events, Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba resigned from office on Sunday following the ruling Liberal Democratic Party’s (LDP) historic electoral defeat in the July parliamentary elections. His resignation marks the end of a turbulent tenure that lasted less than a year.
Pressure Mounts Within the LDP
Ishiba, who assumed office in October last year, had been under mounting pressure from within his party to step down. The LDP’s conservative factions repeatedly demanded his resignation, holding him responsible for the election debacle. For weeks, Ishiba resisted, warning that his departure could create a “political void” in a time of regional and economic uncertainty.
Issues That Defined His Struggle
During his short premiership, Ishiba faced criticism over his handling of rising living costs, controversial rice policy reforms, and strained relations with the United States following Washington’s new tariff measures. These challenges, combined with domestic discontent, weakened his government’s support base.
LDP Leadership Contest Averted
According to the Associated Press, Ishiba’s announcement came just one day before the LDP was set to begin a leadership contest—a move that was widely seen as a vote of no-confidence in him. By stepping aside voluntarily, Ishiba preempted what could have been a humiliating internal defeat.
Call for Successor Election
In his resignation press conference, Ishiba confirmed that he would initiate the process for selecting his successor, making Monday’s planned party vote unnecessary. His departure has now opened the door for a new leadership race that will decide the future direction of Japan’s ruling party.
July Election Shock
The trigger for Ishiba’s downfall was the July parliamentary election, where the ruling alliance led by the LDP failed to secure a majority in the upper house. With 248 seats in contention, the loss severely undermined the government’s stability and legitimacy.
Key Consultations Before Resignation
Before making his announcement, Ishiba reportedly held closed-door meetings with former Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga and Agriculture Minister Shinjiro Koizumi. Both senior leaders are believed to have advised him that resignation was the only viable path to preserving party unity.
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