Ishiba, 67, succeeded Fumio Kishida, who resigned in September after a series of scandals eroded public confidence in the ruling Liberal Democratic Party (LDP).

During an extraordinary parliamentary session, Ishiba defeated Yoshihiko Noda, leader of the opposition Constitutional Democratic Party of Japan (CDP), to retain leadership. However, his minority government will now face opposition demands to pass any legislation, raising concerns about potential gridlock in a hung parliament.

Known for his forthrightness, Ishiba previously served as defense minister and gained popularity by openly criticizing key LDP figures, including Kishida and former Prime Minister Shinzo Abe. This candid approach has resonated with voters but stirred tensions within his party.

Upon taking office on October 1, Ishiba promptly called a snap election, seeking to consolidate his mandate. The gamble, however, backfired, with the LDP losing its majority in one of its worst electoral performances in over a decade. Reflecting on the outcome, Ishiba told NHK, “The Japanese people expressed their strong desire for the LDP to reflect and become a party that acts in line with the people’s will.”

Ishiba’s new cabinet will retain most of its members, though those who lost their seats in the election will be replaced. The LDP faces growing unpopularity amid economic pressures including high inflation, a stagnant economy, and a weakened yen. (ILKHA)