Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida Steps Down Amid Scandals

Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida will not seek re-election as the ruling Liberal Democratic Party leader, ending his three-year tenure. This comes amidst controversies and internal political strife. His departure will set off a leadership contest as Japan grapples with economic issues, geopolitical tensions, and global political changes.

Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida will resign from his position as the ruling Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) leader in September, according to media reports on Wednesday.

Kishida's decision follows a tumultuous three-year term marked by efforts to boost wages and increase defense spending, even as his public support waned due to various scandals and political disagreements.

The prime minister's departure will initiate a leadership race to determine his successor, who will inherit the challenges of managing Japan's fourth-largest economy amid rising living costs, heightened geopolitical tensions, and the prospect of Donald Trump reclaiming the U.S. presidency next year.

(With inputs from agencies.)