Fumio Kishida to Resign as Japan's Prime Minister

Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida has announced his resignation, prompting an internal election on September 27 to select his successor as leader of the ruling Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) and consequently the new prime minister. This decision follows a tumultuous three-year tenure marked by declining public support, corruption scandals, and economic challenges, with Kishida's approval ratings dropping below 20%. A crowded field of at least eleven candidates is expected to vie for the leadership, including former ministers and younger lawmakers, all needing support from 20 party lawmakers to enter the race. The LDP election committee has extended the campaign period to 15 days, starting from September 12, to allow candidates to gain necessary backing. Kishida's departure signals a potential shift within the LDP as it seeks to regain public trust before the next general elections, which must occur by late 2025.