LDP Lawmakers Urge PM Ishiba to Step Down Amid Election Criticism

On August 8, Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba addressed the Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) at a joint plenary meeting for both Upper and Lower house members held in Tokyo’s Nagatacho district. During this meeting, Ishiba encountered significant criticism from several lawmakers within his party who expressed their desire for him to be replaced. They pushed for the presidential election to be held sooner than planned, but Ishiba stood firm in his decision to stay in his role.

At the meeting's outset, Ishiba made it clear that he would remain president of the LDP. He expressed his willingness to listen to the concerns of those present and sought to maintain a constructive dialogue amidst the ongoing contention among various factions within the party. The discussions, which spanned approximately two hours, included a review of the LDP's recent defeat in the July 20 Upper House elections, where they, alongside their junior coalition partner Komeito, lost their majority in a significant setback.

Ishiba apologized for the election results and acknowledged the need for the party to analyze its performance. Thereafter, LDP Secretary-General Hiroshi Moriyama invited members to share their views on both the election and the future direction of the party. Moriyama is leading the effort to assess the LDP's approach and indicated that a comprehensive report would be completed by the end of the month.

The meeting emphasized the necessity of unity and accountability within the LDP, as Moriyama stressed the importance of the party's collective responsibility. After the discussions, Ishiba reaffirmed his intention to continue in his position and clarified that the decision regarding moving up the presidential election should adhere to the rules established by the party. The latter part of the meeting was conducted privately, reflecting the sensitive nature of the discussions taking place.