The head of what was once the most powerful faction within the ruling Liberal Democratic Party is facing a crisis ahead of September's leadership race.
Fukushiro Nukaga, a Lower House member who has led one of the largest party factions over the past nine years, is being pressured to step down. All 21 Upper House members of the faction have jointly demanded his immediate resignation, threatening to leave the group if Nukaga refuses, multiple faction sources said.
If Nukaga's likely departure becomes a reality, the faction could play a key role in the power struggles leading up to the LDP presidential election set for September. The bloc could throw its weight behind a candidate challenging Prime Minister Shinzo Abe in the race, media outlets have speculated.