President Muizzu congratulates new Japanese PM; wishes prosperity and progress

President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu has congratulated the new Prime Minister of Japan, Shigeru Ishiba.

The President extended felicitations via a letter in which wished success in his new role and expressed confidence in the further progress of Japan under the Prime Minister’s leadership.

President Muizzu, noting Japan has consistently made significant contributions to the development of the Maldives, expressed his commitment to work with the government of Japan to strengthen the long-standing Maldives-Japan friendly relations.

Closing his letter, the President expressed well wishes to Prime Minister Ishiba, as well as wishes for the progress and prosperity of the people of Japan.

Ishiba was elected Prime Minister following the resignation of his predecessor Fumio Kishida.

Kishida announced that he will not seek another term as leader of the ruling Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) which has been broiled in corruption scandals increasing public distrust of the party.  

Ishiba beat out Economic Security Minister Sanae Takaichi, a staunch conservative who was running to become the country's first female prime minister.

A record nine lawmakers, including two women, ran in a vote decided by LDP members of parliament and about 1 million dues-paying party members. This accounts for only one percent of the country's eligible voters.

Ishiba beat out Economic Security Minister Sanae Takaichi, a staunch conservative who was running to become the country's first female prime minister.