Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida has announced that he will not seek re-election as the leader of the ruling Liberal Democratic Party (LDP), effectively ending his premiership.
Kishida’s decision comes amid plummeting poll ratings, rising prices, and several scandals that have rocked his government.
Kishida, who has been in office since October 2021, has faced criticism for his handling of the economy, inflation, and corruption scandals.
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Despite efforts to boost his popularity, including a stimulus package and a pledge to increase defense spending, Kishida’s approval ratings have continued to slide.
The LDP is set to hold a leadership contest next month, with several candidates already being touted as potential successors to Kishida.
The new leader will become the prime minister of Japan, marking a significant shift in the country’s political landscape.
Kishida’s departure is seen as an opportunity for the LDP to revamp its image and regain public trust.
However, the challenges facing Japan, including a struggling economy and regional security concerns, will require strong leadership and decisive action from the next prime minister.