Abe "Will Retain Lawmaker Status Even After Stepping Down as Japan's Prime Minister"

"I will support the Suga administration as a single lawmaker"

[Asia Economy Reporter Naju-seok] Shinzo Abe, the Prime Minister of Japan who is resigning for health reasons, has expressed his intention to retain his position as a member of the House of Representatives. However, he did not disclose whether he will run in the next general election.

[Image source=Yonhap News]

On the 16th, Prime Minister Abe met with reporters at his official residence and said, "I want to support the Suga administration as a single member of the Diet."

Stepping down as prime minister that day, Abe said, "I have devoted myself every day to economic revitalization and diplomacy that protects national interests," adding, "It is all thanks to the people. I am grateful." Regarding his chronic illness, ulcerative colitis, he stated, "The medication is effective, and I am recovering smoothly."

With Abe announcing his intention to maintain his status as a member of the House of Representatives even after stepping down as prime minister, he will remain active in politics until at least October next year. However, if Yoshihide Suga, the president of the Liberal Democratic Party, dissolves the House of Representatives and calls a general election, Abe's term will be shortened.

It is not known whether Abe will run again in the next general election. Typically, when a Japanese prime minister resigns, they do not run again, but there are cases where former prime ministers continue to run in their constituencies.

Suga, who is set to be elected as the next prime minister, has pledged to "inherit the Abe administration." In this regard, Suga has conveyed his intention to continue seeking advice from Abe on diplomatic matters and other areas. Because of this, Abe is expected to continue exerting influence behind the scenes.

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.