Shigeru Ishiba reflects on premiership and calls for Imperial House Law reform

Former Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba reflected on his approximately one-year term, giving his administration a self-assessment score of “53 points, at a stretch.” Despite facing a minority government and internal party pressure that led to his resignation, Ishiba stated he has no regrets, noting that his administration successfully passed the budget and 58 out of 59 submitted bills.

Ishiba highlighted his efforts regarding the improvement of Self-Defense Force personnel treatment and the groundwork laid for a Disaster Management Agency. He also expressed a continued distinction from the current Takaichi administration, particularly regarding his views on conservative values and the necessity of reflecting on wartime history.

On domestic policy, Ishiba advocated for the necessity of the consumption tax to ensure stable social security funding, despite its unpopularity. Additionally, he called for further amendments to the Imperial House Law, suggesting that current regulations regarding female succession may conflict with the constitutional principle that the Emperor's position is based on the will of the people.