Ishiba Vows to Stay as Key LDP Figures Resign After Election Loss

On September 2nd, Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba attended a joint plenary meeting of Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) members from both houses of the Diet, held at the party's headquarters in Tokyo. Despite the announcement of resignations from key party figures, Ishiba stated his intention to remain as the ruling party president for the time being.

The meeting addressed the findings of an investigation into the party's significant losses in the Upper House election held on July 20th. Ishiba acknowledged his responsibility for the defeat, expressing remorse for the loss of seats and party members. He reflected on the criticism he faced, suggesting that a lack of clarity regarding his goals as prime minister contributed to the election outcome.

Regarding his future, Ishiba emphasized his lack of attachment to his position, stating his commitment to addressing challenges for the benefit of the people. He asserted his responsibility to guide the LDP forward, promising to make appropriate decisions at the appropriate time, although he did not specify when that would be.

Following the meeting, several of Ishiba's close allies announced their intentions to resign. LDP Secretary-General Hiroshi Moriyama stated his desire to step down to take responsibility for the election results. He planned to submit his resignation to Ishiba, leaving the decision to accept it to the Prime Minister. When asked about the possibility of Ishiba urging him to stay, Moriyama declined to comment.

Itsunori Onodera, chairman of the Policy Research Council, also informed Ishiba of his intention to resign. Shunichi Suzuki, chairman of the General Council, and Seiji Kihara, chairman of the Election Strategy Committee, also informed Ishiba of their intentions to resign.