Zenko Suzuki

Zenko Suzuki became Prime Minister of Japan on July 17, 1980, succeeding Masayoshi Ohira after his death. His appointment followed the Liberal Democratic Party's landslide victory in the 1980 general election. Suzuki's tenure focused on fiscal austerity and administrative reform.

Suzuki declared a policy of fiscal austerity to reduce Japan's growing budget deficit. He aimed to achieve a balanced budget without tax increases, but the policy faced criticism for slowing economic growth and was only partially successful.

Suzuki resigned as Prime Minister in November 1982, citing the need for a new leader to tackle ongoing economic challenges. His resignation came after declining approval ratings and internal LDP criticism over his handling of the economy and foreign policy.