Voices using the hashtag “#IshibaDon’tResign” are spreading on social media. Last weekend, hundreds gathered for a “Don’t Resign, Ishiba” demonstration outside the Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) headquarters. Amid moves to oust Prime Minister Ishiba, people are rallying to support him. BSS Sanin Broadcasting spoke to the demonstration’s organizer to understand their motivation.
During a special Diet session last Friday evening, supporters encouraged Prime Minister Ishiba outside LDP headquarters. Despite an approaching typhoon, hundreds gathered, opposing efforts to oust Ishiba. Many participants aren’t traditional LDP supporters:
One man expressed concern about the influence of right-wing figures if Ishiba steps down.
A woman, participating in a protest for the first time, found out about it through social media and joined.
Another woman, an LDP supporter, wanted to emphasize not all demonstrators were opposition supporters.
Organizer Takamori Hirayama, who previously supported LDP candidates, called for the protest on social media, stating that supporting a party doesn’t mean unconditionally supporting all its actions.
In a recent JNN poll, support for the Ishiba Cabinet rose by 4 points to 36.8%, while those against it dropped by 3.1 points to 60.5%. When asked if Ishiba should resign after the election loss, 47% said “no,” overshadowing the 43% who said “yes.”
Prime Minister Ishiba, addressing the party, emphasized the importance of aligning public opinion with the party’s stance. Hirayama noted that Ishiba, as Japan’s Prime Minister, has support beyond just the LDP. Another protest is scheduled for Friday, with participation calls already circulating on social media.
These unusual supportive demonstrations continue, raising questions about their potential impact on the party’s internal efforts to push Ishiba out.
by MagazineKey4532