After the ruling coalition of the Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) and Komeito failed to maintain a majority in the House of Councillors election, Prime Minister Ishiba formally announced he would continue in his role. Despite this, following consecutive electoral defeats, his decision to stay has sparked criticism from voters and party members alike, who argue that not taking responsibility is unacceptable.
During a press conference at the LDP headquarters, Ishiba apologized quietly as he began speaking and repeated the need to address urgent issues. He dismissed questions on changing party leadership or restructuring the cabinet, closing the meeting with a faint smile. A viewer from Chiba expressed disbelief that neither Ishiba nor other party leaders were assuming responsibility.
A long-time LDP supporter, frustrated by the handling of inflation, voted for a different party this time. He urged the ruling parties to address rising costs and consider the election results seriously. A real estate professional from Yokohama doubted the current administration’s ability to win future elections and criticized its handling of U.S.-Japan tariff negotiations, expressing skepticism about a government that has stagnated the economy for decades.
Voices inside the party also called for accountability. In Gunma, a traditionally strong LDP area, concerns were raised about the party becoming a “lame duck” under minority status, suggesting Ishiba should step down.
Tomoda from Yamaguchi openly stated that Ishiba failed to gain public trust and recommended a change in leadership, followed by an effort to understand citizen concerns in a new administration.
In Ishiba’s hometown, Tottori, there were also supportive voices. Proportional representative Mainami expressed at a local meeting the intention to steadfastly support the Ishiba administration, acknowledging the anticipated difficulties in governance.
by MagazineKey4532