Japanese Premier Declares Resignation

(MENAFN) Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba on Sunday revealed his decision to step down during a press briefing in Tokyo, pointing to the recent US tariff agreement, which enforced 15% duties on Japanese imports, as a major factor behind his departure.

Ishiba’s move followed his governing coalition’s defeat in the upper chamber elections in July.

Expressing profound remorse, he admitted his inability to fulfill expectations as the head of the Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) and accepted accountability for the party’s decline.

As reported by a news agency, Ishiba stated that his resignation was aimed at “avoid a decisive split” within the LDP.

He further declared that he would not run in the upcoming LDP presidential contest, despite securing the leadership last year on his fifth attempt.

The outgoing premier praised his administration for “reaching a milestone” by finalizing a tariff pact with the US, which brought in 15% duties on Japanese goods.

Looking forward, Ishiba called on his successor to deepen relations with the US and other vital partners.

Although resigning as LDP president, Ishiba will continue as Japan’s prime minister until the party elects a new leader, a role that, under Japan’s political framework, is essentially equal to the premiership.

The LDP leadership elections are scheduled for next month, unless the party opts to advance the timeline.

Ishiba’s resignation came after he encountered mounting criticism from within the ruling LDP, particularly in the aftermath of its defeat in the Upper House polls on July 20.

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