Abe announced his resignation as Prime Minister, citing a resurgence of his ulcerative colitis.

“Although there is one year to go in my time in office and there are challenges to be met, I have decided to stand down as prime minister,” Abe said.

Abe's ulcerative colitis relapsed in June 2020, and resulted in his health deteriorating through the summer. Following several hospital visits, Abe announced that he intended to again resign as prime minister, citing his inability to carry out the duties of the office while seeking treatment for his condition.

He will remain in office until a successor is chosen by the Liberal Democratic Party. During the press conference announcing his resignation, Abe declined to endorse any specific successor.

ILKHA