Tokyo: Japan’s Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba has stepped down following a string of election defeats that have weakened his party’s hold on power. The resignation signals a major leadership change in the fourth-largest economy globally.
During Ishiba’s tenure, the ruling Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) lost its majority in both houses of parliament, creating a complex political situation. The party must now select a new leader, who may not automatically become prime minister given the current fragmented political scenario.
The leadership contest will involve a two-round voting process, including both party lawmakers and grassroots members nationwide. The new leader will face the challenge of stabilizing the government and could potentially call early elections to secure wider public support.
The schedule for choosing Ishiba’s successor has not yet been finalized.
