Japan Election: Shigeru Ishiba became PM, resigned after losses; Takaichi succeeded him and led LDP to 2026 landslide victory.
Japan Election: In the years 2024 and 2026, Japan's political scene saw a significant upheaval that included a decisive general election and leadership changes within the ruling Liberal Democratic Party (LDP). Sanae Takaichi, who later led the LDP to a resounding victory in the 2026 election, was made possible by the resignation of former Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba in 2025.
Shigeru Ishiba is a veteran Japanese politician from the Liberal Democratic Party (LDP). He was born on February 4, 1957, in Tottori Prefecture. He served multiple terms in the House of Representatives and held key cabinet posts, including Defence Minister and Agriculture Minister. Known for his expertise in security and defence policy, Ishiba became Prime Minister of Japan in October 2024 after winning the LDP leadership race.
Shigeru Ishiba resigned in October 2025 after a series of electoral setbacks weakened the LDP’s position. His party suffered losses in national and local elections, triggering internal dissent and pressure from party lawmakers. Taking responsibility for the defeats and failing to stabilise party support, Ishiba stepped down as both prime minister and LDP president.
Sanae Takaichi is one of the senior LDP leaders and Japan’s first woman prime minister, assuming office in October 2025. This is a long-time lawmaker from Nara; she is also known for her conservative stance, strong national security views, and economic reform agenda. She led the rise marked a historic moment in Japanese politics.
In the February 2026 general election, the Sanae Takaichi-led LDP and its coalition partners won with a decisive majority in the House of Representatives. His landslide victory led to the strengthening of her mandate and consolidated her leadership.
Shigeru Ishiba’s resignation changed Japan’s leadership, while Sanae Takaichi’s historic rise and election win signalled a new chapter in the country’s political direction.
