Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida has announced that he will not run for re-election next month for the leadership of the ruling Liberal Democratic Party, NHK News reported. During a press conference on Wednesday, he said: Kishida stressed the importance of showing the public that the Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) is capable of change. He explained that a transparent, open election with free debate was crucial and that withdrawing from the race was a clear signal of the party’s commitment to renewal.
Kishida praised his government’s achievements, highlighting efforts to increase wages and investment, which he credited with ending 30 years of deflation. He also pointed to the government’s revamp of energy policy to meet rising electricity demand and the implementation of extensive measures to combat the declining birth rate. In addition, Kishida He pointed out that his government had significantly strengthened Japan’s defense capabilities. He expressed pride in these achievements and expressed his support for a new leader to lead the party forward.
The decision follows a scandal surrounding political financing within the LDPwhich dealt with allegations that political funds were not reported through the sale of tickets to party events, of which over 80 LDP legislators. The scandal, which came to light late last year, has led to a sharp drop in approval ratings for KishidaThe majority of votes in the cabinet fell to 20 percent.
KishidaThe decision to resign has provoked mixed reactions from Japanese legislator. A high-ranking LDP Member told NHK that they had repeatedly demanded Kishida to run for election, arguing that it would be irresponsible to leave unresolved problems unsolved. Despite his resignation Kishida stated that he would continue to serve as a “simple” member of the LDPbut declined to support a specific candidate for the next party leadership and prime ministership.
There are several potential candidates for the LDP leadership race. Former Defense Minister Shigeru Ishiba has announced his intention to run, while Digital Minister Taro Kono has informed LDP Vice President Taro Aso on his plans to enter the race. Other possible candidates are LDP Secretary-General Toshimitu Motegi, Economic Security Minister Sanae Takaichi, former Environment Minister Shinjiro Koizumi and former Economic Security Minister Takayuki Kobayashi. Kishidawho took office as Prime Minister in October 2021, made his announcement following defeats in local elections earlier this year that weakened his political influence and fuelled demands within the LDP for new leadership before the next parliamentary elections.
