Tokyo, August 13, 2024 — Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida has announced he will not seek re-election as the leader of the ruling Liberal Democratic Party (LDP), paving the way for a new leader to be elected in September. The 67-year-old, who has been in office since October 2021, cited the need for a “new start” for the party as the primary reason for his decision.
Kishida’s approval ratings have recently hit a record low of 15.5%, reflecting growing dissatisfaction with his leadership amidst a series of challenges. His tenure has been marred by a corruption scandal involving his party, a significant rise in living costs, and a depreciating yen.
The LDP, which has dominated Japanese politics almost continuously since 1955, faces a critical juncture as it prepares for a general election due in 2025. Kishida’s decision comes as a surprise to many within the party. A senior LDP leader attempted to persuade Kishida to run for re-election, but Kishida deemed it “irresponsible” to continue under the current circumstances. Another party member expressed regret over Kishida’s departure, acknowledging his strong record in foreign and defense policy.
The political crisis in Japan has been exacerbated by recent scandals, including the resignation of several LDP cabinet ministers and vice-ministers following a fundraising scandal linked to the party’s most powerful faction. The scandal has prompted a criminal investigation into allegations of financial misconduct involving millions of dollars.
Public frustration has been compounded by economic difficulties, including soaring food prices, which have further eroded trust in the ruling party despite a fragmented opposition.
Kishida’s Background and Legacy
Fumio Kishida, a member of a politically influential family, began his political career in 1993 and became Japan’s longest-serving foreign minister from 2012 to 2017. He succeeded Yoshihide Suga as prime minister and led the LDP to a victory in the 2021 general election.
During his time in office, Kishida focused on boosting wages and household incomes amid rising living costs and oversaw Japan’s recovery from the Covid-19 pandemic. His tenure was also marked by the high-profile assassination of former Prime Minister Shinzo Abe in July 2022, and Kishida’s controversial decision to honor Abe with a state funeral.
Kishida’s foreign policy achievements include strengthening Japan’s defense cooperation with the United States, expanding Japan’s military budget, and improving relations with South Korea. Notably, Japan joined the US and South Korea in a joint statement at a Camp David summit last August, highlighting expanded cooperation among the three nations.
As Japan’s political landscape shifts, the selection of a new LDP leader will be pivotal in shaping the future direction of the country’s domestic and international policies.
