Japan’s Prime Minister Kishida has announced that he will resign next month

14-08-2024

Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida has announced his intention to step down next month and will not seek re-election as the leader of the Liberal Democratic Party (LDP), following a string of political controversies that have increased pressure for his resignation.

In a press conference held on Wednesday, Kishida emphasized the importance of presenting the LDP as a reformed party.

“Now, more than ever, transparent and open elections and free, robust debate are essential. The clearest way to demonstrate the LDP’s commitment to change is for me to step down,” he stated.

Kishida explained that his decision was made with a firm resolve to advance political reform, as public trust is the cornerstone of effective governance.

The LDP, which has governed Japan almost continuously since its establishment in 1955, has recently been caught up in one of the most significant political scandals in decades.

Allegations have surfaced against two of the LDP’s most powerful factions, accusing them of improperly declaring their financial activities, and in some cases, diverting political funds to lawmakers as kickbacks.

These scandals have been compounded by controversies involving high-ranking officials, with some facing accusations of election law violations or making offensive remarks about minorities.

Kishida attempted to manage the fallout by reshuffling several cabinet positions last year, but this move has done little to regain public confidence. A survey conducted by the Mainichi Shimbun newspaper indicated a record-high disapproval rating of 79% toward his cabinet.