Key Facts
• August 9: LDP Osaka chapter formally accepted Shigeharu Aoyama’s resignation as chair.
• Aoyama, 73, resigned after the July election loss, citing full responsibility.
• LDP failed to secure any seats in Osaka for the first time in 27 years.
• July election results: LDP won 39 seats, falling short of a majority with non-contested seats.
• Aoyama served as chair for only seven months, starting in December 2024.
• Interim leadership: Either Tomoaki Shimada (55) or Rui Matsukawa (54) will act as deputy.
• November or December: New chapter chair to be elected at the Osaka chapter convention.
• Party rules may be revised to allow local politicians to serve as chapter chair.
• August 8: LDP general meeting decided to consider an early leadership election.
• Aoyama supported the decision, emphasizing adherence to party rules and moral standards.
Summary
Shigeharu Aoyama, a 73-year-old member of Japan’s Liberal Democratic Party (LDP), officially resigned as chair of the Osaka chapter on August 9, following the party’s significant defeat in the July House of Councillors election. The LDP failed to secure any seats in Osaka for the first time in 27 years, contributing to its overall loss of a parliamentary majority. Aoyama, who served as chair for only seven months, accepted full responsibility for the defeat. Interim leadership will be handled by either Tomoaki Shimada or Rui Matsukawa until a new chair is elected in late 2025. The party is also considering revising its rules to allow local politicians to serve as chapter chair. Additionally, Aoyama supported the LDP’s decision to explore an early leadership election, emphasizing the importance of adhering to party rules and moral principles.
