Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe announced on Friday (Aug 28) that he will resign after he discovered that an underlying chronic condition relapsed in June this year.

In a press conference, Mr Abe, 65,  said his condition – ulcerative colitis, an inflammatory bowel disease – has become a situation where he does not know if he can live up to the confidence and expectations of the citizens.

Mr Abe said the relapse rendered existing medication ineffective and hence, he will need more treatment. He made the decision to resign on Monday during a medical check-up.

With the possibility of a Covid-19 flare-up during the winter months, Mr Abe said he did not want a political vacuum at a time when leadership is most needed.

Mr Abe added that he will stay on as premier until a successor is chosen, a vote that is expected to be held next month

Thanking the people for their support over the last seven years and eight months, Mr Abe also apologised for resigning a year ahead of time while the country is still battling the Covid-19 pandemic and tackling other issues such as North Korean abductees and territorial dispute with Russia.

Local media earlier reported Mr Abe’s intention to resign sending shock waves through Japan’s political circles and blindsiding even his aides in the ruling Liberal Democratic Party (LDP).

Kyodo News cited a source as quoting Mr Abe as saying that treatment was needed for the condition, which was kept under control with medication but has recently recurred.

“I will not be able to make proper judgments due to illness,” Mr Abe was quoted by an LDP executive as telling party members.

The shock resignation will intensify jockeying among potential successors within the LDP’s ranks for the right to take over from Mr Abe, who is stepping down over a year ahead of time.