Japan ruling party official sees no reason for no-confidence vote in Kishida cabinet

Japanese ruling Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) Secretary General Toshimitsu Motegi said on Monday he could think of no reason why the cabinet of Prime Minister Fumio Kishida deserved a vote of no-confidence that could trigger a snap election.

An election for parliament's more powerful lower house is not due until 2025, but Kishida is looking to solidify his strength in the LDP ahead of a leadership race next fall, so as to ensure his re-election and retain the premiership. Public support for Kishida was 43% in the latest poll, released on Monday by public broadcaster NHK, down 3 points from last month, thought the disapproval rating rose 6 points to 37%.