Japan’s notorious “revolving door” of prime ministers has claimed another victim, with Shigeru Ishiba announcing he will step down after less than a year in charge. His resignation adds another chapter to the country’s history of short-lived leaders and deepens its current political instability.
Ishiba, a centrist veteran, was unable to reverse the fortunes of the ruling Liberal Democratic Party (LDP). His tenure was immediately marred by an election loss in the lower house, followed by another in the upper house, effectively paralyzing his administration and making his position untenable.
The final push came from within his own party. Facing a coordinated effort by LDP lawmakers to remove him, Ishiba opted to resign to avoid a bruising internal battle. His departure highlights the deep divisions within the LDP and the enduring influence of powerful factions, including those loyal to former prime ministers Taro Aso and the late Shinzo Abe.
The LDP will now hold a leadership contest in October. The winner will become Japan’s next prime minister and will be tasked with tackling a formidable agenda, including economic stagnation, a cost of living crisis, and navigating an increasingly tense geopolitical environment in East Asia.