Japanese Prime Minister Ishiba Shigeru has decided to step down, just weeks after his ruling coalition suffered a major electoral defeat in the upper house of parliament, NHK World reported on Sunday.
The announcement marks a turning point in Japanese politics, as Ishiba had previously vowed to remain in office to prevent a “political stalemate” despite mounting pressure from within his Liberal Democratic Party (LDP).
In July, the LDP-Komeito coalition lost its majority in the 248-member upper house, dropping from 141 to 122 seats. This setback followed an earlier loss of majority in the lower house, leaving Ishiba’s leadership severely weakened.
Acknowledging his “heavy responsibility” for the outcome, Ishiba initially ruled out resignation, stressing the need to steer the country through rising household costs and looming US tariffs. In August, he again reaffirmed his intent to stay on, even as party lawmakers urged him to step aside.
According to Kyodo News, the LDP leadership had already been considering advancing its next leadership vote, originally scheduled for 2027, in light of growing dissatisfaction.
Ishiba’s resignation opens the door for a new leader to take charge of Japan’s government at a time of economic strain and political uncertainty.