A recent election result in Japan’s second most populous city of Yokohama could spell the beginning of the end for the nation’s Prime Minister, Yoshihide Suga
It follows Mr Hachiro Okonogi losing the mayoral election in the city, despite having the backing of the PM, a well-known family name and a Cabinet position.
While some say it’s just another loss, other political commentators believe the defeat is far too close to the country’s upcoming general election that will decide Suga’s political future.
The Prime Minister says the result “is truly regrettable”… and he humbly accepts the loss.
But Suga confirmed that he will still contest the upcoming LDP presidential election next month… and he wants to lead the party to the polls.
However, critics are questioning whether the LDP will really see the current leader as the best option moving forward.
Suga’s popularity has fallen dramatically in recent months, particularly following the Tokyo 20-20 Olympic Games… in which most Japanese residents were opposed to hosting.
LDP party members have privately expressed their concern about the prospects of winning the nation’s election if Prime Minister SOO-GA remains in charge.
One commentator says “the magnitude of the humiliation is quite a serious blow to Suga… who may face a very difficult prospect of re-election as LDP president.”
