Key Aide to Japan PM Ishiba Resigns Following Election Defeat

The secretary general of Japan’s ruling Liberal Democratic Party (LDP), Hiroshi Moriyama, announced on September 2, 2023, his intention to resign from his position. His decision comes in the wake of the party’s significant defeat in the July 20 upper house elections, where the ruling coalition lost its majority. Moriyama, a close aide to Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba, indicated that he is stepping down to take responsibility for the electoral setback.

Following a plenary meeting of the LDP, Moriyama expressed his commitment to resigning, stating that he would leave the final decision regarding his resignation to Ishiba. The meeting was convened to evaluate the party’s performance in the recent elections and to discuss potential next steps. Moriyama, recognized for his fiscal conservatism, acknowledged the need for accountability within the party structure.

Ishiba, addressing the media after the meeting, reiterated his stance against resigning immediately. He emphasized that he would determine how to accept responsibility for the election loss at an “appropriate timing.” According to Ishiba, addressing urgent challenges facing the party, including economic measures for citizens affected by inflation and U.S. tariffs, is one way he could demonstrate accountability.

The Prime Minister also mentioned that he would make an “appropriate decision” regarding Moriyama’s resignation. Reports from the Sankei newspaper suggest that Ishiba plans to consult with his ministers soon to compile an economic stimulus package aimed at alleviating inflation impacts. This move could indicate his commitment to remaining in office while addressing calls from within the party to expedite a leadership election.

As the LDP navigates through this political turmoil, the implications of Moriyama’s resignation, coupled with the party’s electoral defeat, raise significant questions about the future leadership dynamics. The potential for a leadership election looms, and the coming days may prove crucial in shaping the political landscape in Japan.