Japanese PM Ishiba Defies Pressure After Coalition Loses Upper House Majority
Japanese PM Ishiba Defies Pressure After Coalition Loses Upper House Majority
Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba has declared his intention to remain in office despite his ruling coalition facing a significant defeat in Sunday’s upper house election. Exit polls and early projections indicate that the Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) and its junior partner Komeito have lost their majority in the powerful 248-seat chamber, a result Ishiba described as “harsh” but one he “solemnly accepts.”
The election, held amidst widespread voter frustration over rising prices, a cost-of-living crisis, and ongoing trade negotiations with the United States, saw half of the upper chamber’s seats contested. Public broadcaster NHK projected the coalition would secure between 32 and 51 seats, falling short of the 50 needed to maintain control. This outcome marks a severe setback for the coalition, potentially its worst performance since its formation in 1999.
Despite historical precedents of previous LDP premiers stepping down after similar losses, Prime Minister Ishiba emphasized his immediate focus on critical trade negotiations. Analysts suggest that a change in leadership within the ruling party could destabilize Japan’s government at a crucial juncture, opening the door for other prominent LDP members like Sanae Takaichi, Takayuki Kobayashi, or Shinjiro Koizumi to contend for leadership.
The election results underscore growing public discontent with Ishiba’s administration, which has grappled with economic headwinds and a series of political scandals. Support for more right-wing parties also impacted the LDP’s traditional conservative base, further complicating the political landscape.
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