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Ishiba Re-elected Amidst Political Uncertainty
Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba wins re-election despite his party's poor showing in recent elections, leading to a hung parliament and challenges to his leadership.
French
France
International RelationsElectionsGovernmentIndo PacificChallengesJapanese Politics
Liberal Democratic Party (Ldp)Democratic Party For The People (Pdp)KomeitoConstitutional Democratic Party (Cdp)
Shigeru IshibaYoshihiko NodaFumio KishidaDonald Trump
- Who was re-elected as Prime Minister of Japan?
- Shigeru Ishiba was re-elected Prime Minister of Japan on November 11, 2024, after a parliamentary vote. He secured 221 votes, defeating Yoshihiko Noda. This followed a disastrous election for his Liberal Democratic Party (LDP).
- What led to the LDP's poor electoral performance?
- Ishiba's reelection came after the LDP's worst electoral performance since 2009, attributed to voter dissatisfaction with inflation and a recent political scandal. A second round of voting was needed because neither candidate initially secured a majority.
- What internal and external challenges does Ishiba face?
- Ishiba faces internal party discontent following the LDP's significant seat losses in the October 27 election, which included cabinet ministers. He also faces external pressure from a potential new US administration and its possible trade and military policies.
- What is the political situation in Japan following the election?
- The election resulted in a hung parliament, with the LDP and its ally Komeito losing their absolute majority. Ishiba's government will need to negotiate with opposition parties, such as the Democratic Party for the People (PDP), to pass legislation.
- What demands has the PDP made in exchange for cooperation with Ishiba's government?
- The PDP has already demanded tax cuts and energy subsidies in exchange for cooperation, which economists believe could negatively impact government finances. Ishiba's government is navigating a delicate balance between internal party factions and external political pressures.