Ishiba pledges to cooperate with long-ignored opposition in bid to save his government

Past is not necessarily prologue, Mark, just maybe Ishiba can rise to the occasion. Not having a majority could be just the pressure that's needed to find real solutions!

@Ricky, @Yubaru

As Japan ushers in Shigeru Ishiba as its new Prime Minister, the nation must grapple with the weight of his past—a legacy marked by mismanagement, questionable ethics, and public embarrassments. While Ishiba's rise may represent continuity for the LDP, his record inspires little confidence in leadership for the challenges of tomorrow.

Take, for example, Ishiba's ill-fated debut on the international stage at the APEC Summit. Footage of him seated, checking his phone, and only half-heartedly greeting world leaders such as Justin Trudeau and Anwar Ibrahim caused a firestorm of criticism. For a country renowned for its emphasis on decorum, this display was not only discourteous but an affront to Japan's reputation as a model of hospitality and manners. His demeanor at the event, including watching cultural performances with arms crossed, left the impression of a disengaged and tone-deaf statesman—a poor reflection of Japan on the global stage​

(ref: Japan Today, ​Manila Standard)

Closer to home, Ishiba’s years as an LDP stalwart are riddled with fiscal irresponsibility, including the now-infamous "massage chair scandal." While serving in public office, Ishiba saw fit to acquire two luxury massage chairs for his workspace using taxpayer funds, sparking outrage over the misuse of public money. Such extravagances are emblematic of an entrenched political class more focused on personal comfort than the needs of the Japanese people.

The LDP, under Ishiba’s leadership, must confront not only his track record but the broader implications of a stagnant political system that allows figures with histories of waste and inefficacy to helm the nation. Ishiba’s ascent to the Prime Minister's office is a culmination of decades of party loyalty rather than evidence of vision or competence.

As Japan faces economic headwinds, demographic challenges, and an increasingly complex geopolitical landscape, it is imperative that its leaders embody the values of responsibility, respect, and innovation. Ishiba, with his embarrassing APEC missteps and fiscal indiscretions, has yet to prove he can rise to the occasion. His premiership should be met with scrutiny, not blind optimism.

I doubt he'll last 6 months. And I'm being generous.

What gives you this impression?

Ishiba seems like he has leadership skills, unlike his LDP predecessors.

Give him his chance. If he is able to work together with the opposition, for the betterment of everyone, more power to him.

The Abe led LDP was run by a dictator, and a "leader" in name only.

Ishiba seems like he has leadership skills, unlike his LDP predecessors.

The people want results, not one-party rule, which is inevitably corrupt. It's the same all across the world.

Give Ishiba a chance, certainly expectations are LOW!

Ishiba is a slightly more cuddly version of Aso. A few more gaffs and he will be shown the door.

a long-pursued disaster ministry

The entire government is a disaster

That makes a change from the usual non cooperative stance then…

The policies actually sound decent, so do the pledges, he just needs to learn how to behave. It’s been a train wreck so far. APEC wasn’t a great start on the world stage at all. All we see is entitlement and arrogance.

How are the opposition taking to his olive branch I wonder? Are the daggers out or are they going to give him a shot? Is he better behind closed doors?

Will only hope he is and reserve judgement and see.

Dead man walking!

They have long ignored until it can't be ignored anymore.

https://www.aa.com.tr/en/asia-pacific/japans-opposition-parties-set-to-gain-more-seats-in-parliament-survey/3364958