Japan’s PM stepping down

Japan’s Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba has announced he is resigning after less than a year in the role as calls for his departure increased following two poor showings at the polls.

The 68-year-old’s decision was revealed a day before his Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) was to consider whether to hold an early presidential election.

He became Prime Minister in October 2024 but under his tenure the LDP lost its majority in the lower house for the first time in 15 years and then lost its majority in the upper house in July.

Ishiba, pictured, says he decided to step down after negotiations with the United States over tariffs for Japanese exports reached a milestone last week.

“I’ve always said I will decide what to do at an appropriate timing. With US tariff negotiations reaching a certain phase, I believe now is the appropriate timing,” he explains.

“I decided to give way to the next generation.”

Ishiba had resolved just days before his September 7 announcement to stay in his post and address the challenges his government is facing on a number of fronts, particularly the economy, reports the Japan Times. 

He will continue in as prime minister until a new LDP president is selected.