In a significant political development, the Cabinet of outgoing Prime Minister Kishida Fumio has resigned en masse in anticipation of the incoming administration led by his successor, Ishiba Shigeru. The resignation occurred during a Cabinet meeting held shortly after 9 a.m. on Tuesday, marking a formal end to Kishida’s leadership, which began in October 2021 following the tenure of former Prime Minister Suga Yoshihide.
Ishiba, recently elected as the leader of the ruling Liberal Democratic Party (LDP), is set to be confirmed as Prime Minister by both chambers of the Diet later in the afternoon. He will convene with Ishii Keiichi, the leader of the LDP’s junior coalition partner Komeito, before establishing a task force to appoint his Cabinet ministers. The new lineup will be announced by the chief cabinet secretary, with the inauguration ceremony expected to take place in the evening at the Imperial Palace.
Ishiba plans to hold a news conference prior to his inaugural Cabinet meeting, where he will outline his ministerial lineup and share his vision for governance.
In a statement reflecting on his three-year tenure, Kishida expressed pride in the accomplishments of his administration, emphasizing his commitment to addressing pressing challenges in Japan. He highlighted the Kishida administration’s focus on revitalizing the economy through a “new capitalism,” aimed at fostering a sustainable cycle of growth, wages, and prices. Kishida noted that Japan is at a critical juncture, with a unique opportunity to overcome three decades of deflation and shift towards a growth-oriented economy.
Kishida’s statement also addressed social issues, noting the government’s efforts to enhance support for children and families, maintain a free and open international order based on the rule of law, and strengthen Japan’s defense capabilities. However, he acknowledged the challenges posed by political funding controversies within LDP factions, expressing regret over the situation that has eroded public trust in politics.
As he steps down, Kishida expressed hope that Ishiba’s new Cabinet will vigorously implement important policies that will pave the way for Japan’s future. The transition marks a pivotal moment for the Japanese government as it aims to address ongoing economic and diplomatic challenges while restoring public confidence in political institutions.
