Key Facts
• Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba expressed intent to continue despite internal opposition.
• Calls for Ishiba’s resignation intensified during a 4.5-hour party meeting.
• Secretary-General Hiroyuki Moriyama hinted at resigning over the controversy.
• Former Secretary-General Toshimitsu Motegi criticized Ishiba’s leadership, citing three consecutive election losses.
• August 8: Liberal Democratic Party to hold a General Assembly of both Houses.
• The assembly can advance leadership elections but cannot force resignation.
• Criticism arose over scheduling the meeting during the Obon holiday to reduce attendance.
• Polls: 46% support Ishiba’s resignation, 42% oppose; only 125 signed an online petition.
• Social media campaigns like “#Don’tResignIshiba” and protests supported Ishiba’s continuation.
• Allegations of mishandling a bribery scandal added to the pressure.
• Former Tokyo Governor Yoichi Masuzoe questioned the authenticity of pro-Ishiba campaigns.
• Journalist Kazuhiro Aoyama predicted Ishiba’s resignation as inevitable, timing uncertain.
Summary
Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba faces mounting pressure within Japan’s Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) to resign, following poor election results and internal dissatisfaction. Despite expressing his intent to continue, Ishiba’s leadership has been criticized by senior party members, including former Secretary-General Toshimitsu Motegi, who cited three consecutive election losses. The LDP plans to hold a General Assembly on August 8, where leadership elections could be advanced, though no mechanism exists to force Ishiba’s resignation. Public opinion remains divided, with 46% supporting his resignation and 42% opposing it. Social media campaigns and protests have emerged in support of Ishiba, but allegations of mishandling a bribery scandal and criticism over meeting scheduling have fueled opposition. Journalist Kazuhiro Aoyama suggested Ishiba’s resignation is inevitable, though the timing remains uncertain.
