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Ishiba Fends Off Leadership Challenge in Rare Full LDP Caucus

He promised to prevent a vacuum by fully implementing the US-Japan tariff reduction deal in the face of low public support.

Overview

  • At a rare July 28 full LDP caucus meeting, lawmakers debated leadership change after the coalition lost its upper-house majority on July 20.
  • Ishiba opened the session by apologizing for the electoral setback and vowing to stay in office to avert a political void.
  • The prime minister highlighted his commitment to deliver on a surprise US deal that cuts tariffs from 25 percent to 15 percent.
  • Mainichi and Asahi polls show just 29 percent approval for Ishiba’s government, with 41 percent urging his resignation and 81 percent blaming party-wide issues.
  • Former foreign minister Toshimitsu Motegi urged the LDP to seek a “fresh start with a new leader” to restore public confidence.