Japan PM Abe resigns due to illness with many issues unresolved – IOTW Report

Japan PM Abe resigns due to illness with many issues unresolved

Kyodo News: Prime Minister Shinzo Abe said Friday he will resign due to a flare-up of his chronic intestinal disease, ending his nearly eight-year stint as Japan’s longest-serving leader, in the midst of the coronavirus pandemic, with many of his political ambitions unrealized.

Abe, who just four days ago set a record of staying in power for 2,799 consecutive days, will leave office without achieving his long-cherished goal of amending Japan’s pacifist Constitution or seeing the Tokyo Olympics due to be staged next summer while still the country’s leader.

“As I am no longer in a condition to respond confidently to the mandate of the people, I have decided I should not stay in the prime minister’s post,” the 65-year-old said at a nationally televised press conference.

The abrupt announcement, already setting off a contest for his successor, came amid falling public support for his Cabinet as many perceived his government was dealing poorly with issues stemming from the spread of the virus. more here

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