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Prime Minister Ishiba Formally Declares Resignation

TOKYO - Prime Minister Ishiba announced on September 7th at a press conference that he would step down, formally declaring his resignation. He also indicated that he would not run in the upcoming Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) leadership race, which he asked to be brought forward.

At the press conference held at the Prime Minister’s Office at 6 p.m., Ishiba acknowledged responsibility for the party’s defeat in the recent Upper House election. He stated, "Now that tariff negotiations with the United States have reached a conclusion, this is the right timing to resign. I have decided to step aside for the next generation."

He further emphasized his commitment until a new leader is chosen, saying, "Until a new president is selected, I will fulfill my responsibilities and then entrust the future to the next prime minister and party leader."

Following Ishiba’s formal announcement, the LDP is expected to hold an extraordinary executive meeting on the morning of September 8th. At that meeting, the party is likely to decide against submitting documents to postpone the leadership election, clearing the way for an early contest.

Source: TBS

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