Japan’s Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba to Step Down After Electoral Defeat

Report by “Safarti Tarjuman” International News Desk

TOKYO — Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba is set to resign following his ruling coalition’s defeat in the recent upper house elections, according to a report published by The Mainichi newspaper on Tuesday.

The formal announcement of his resignation is expected by the end of August, sources close to the matter revealed.

The Liberal Democratic Party (LDP), led by Ishiba, and its coalition partner Komeito, lost their majority in Japan’s upper house of parliament in the July 20 national elections. This marks the second consecutive electoral defeat for the ruling bloc.

Despite losing the lower house majority last fall, Ishiba was able to remain in power by forming a minority government due to disunity among opposition parties.

In a highly symbolic and unusual move, Ishiba is expected to meet with former Prime Ministers Yoshihide Suga, Fumio Kishida, and Taro Aso before stepping down — a gesture described as a formal “bow” of respect, according to Mainichi’s government source.

Political analysts suggest this could be an attempt to unify party leadership and ensure a smooth transition of power within the LDP.

While no official successors have been announced, potential candidates from within the LDP’s old guard and younger reformists are reportedly vying for leadership. The transition comes at a critical time for Japan, facing challenges ranging from economic stagnation and defense concerns to diplomatic tensions in East Asia.

The resignation, once confirmed, is expected to trigger a leadership contest within the LDP, which traditionally determines the next prime minister without a national election.

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