Japan’s Prime Minister, Shigeru Ishiba, announced his resignation on September 7, 2025, ending a brief tenure of just under a year. His decision comes in the wake of a series of electoral defeats that saw the ruling Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) lose its majority in both the lower and upper houses of parliament—a blow that shook the party’s longstanding dominance.
Ishiba rose to leadership in late 2024 on a platform to “make Japan smile again,” promising revival after scandals under his predecessor. However, his administration quickly faced domestic discontent over inflation, sluggish economic growth, and rising living costs, as well as challenging trade talks with the U.S.—factors that sparked strong voter backlash and internal party pressure.
In his resignation announcement, Ishiba said he wanted to pass the baton to the next generation and begin the process of selecting a new LDP leader, aiming to restore party unity and prevent further political instability. Observers say his departure sets the stage for a tense leadership contest within the LDP amid a precarious time for Japan’s political landscape.
A pensive Shigeru Ishiba delivers his resignation statement in Tokyo on September 7, 2025, signaling the end of a turbulent 11-month premiership.
