Tokyo — Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba has announced his decision to step down from office, public broadcaster NHK reported.

According to NHK, Ishiba’s resignation is aimed at preventing further division within the ruling Liberal Democratic Party (LDP). Survey results from all LDP lawmakers and regional party branches on whether to hold an early leadership election are expected to be released .

The Ishiba-led LDP suffered a major setback in the July parliamentary elections, failing to secure a majority in both houses. This defeat sparked widespread calls within the party for Ishiba to take responsibility and resign.

NHK reported that the LDP was preparing to decide on Monday whether to hold a special leadership contest. On Saturday, Ishiba met with former Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga and Agriculture Minister Shinjiro Koizumi, who reportedly urged him to prioritize party unity. According to sources, they advised Ishiba to resign before lawmakers formally moved to demand a leadership vote.