TOKYO (AP) — Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi has dissolved the lower house of parliament, setting the stage for an early election on February 8. With soaring approval ratings around 70%, Takaichi hopes to harness her popularity to strengthen her party, the Liberal Democratic Party (LDP), after difficult losses in previous years. However, this decision postpones the approval of a budget designed to tackle Japan’s economic struggles and rising costs.
Elected in October as Japan’s first female prime minister, Takaichi faces challenges, including past corruption scandals linked to her party and growing tensions with China. Her recent comments about the island of Taiwan have stirred controversy, prompting a defensive response from Beijing. Additionally, U.S. President Donald Trump has urged Japan to bolster its defense spending amid increasing military competition in the region.
The dissolution of the 465-member House of Representatives clears the way for a 12-day campaign. When Speaker Fukushiro Nukaga announced the dissolution, lawmakers celebrated with cheers of “banzai,” meaning “long live,” before rushing to prepare for the upcoming election.
Aspirations for a Majority
Takaichi aims to secure a governing majority in the powerful lower house of Japan’s parliament, the National Diet. Her coalition still has a slim majority there, but they lack control of the upper House of Councillors. Currently, they need votes from opposition members to forward their agenda. Critics are already challenging her decision to delay the budget, arguing it hampers important economic measures.
“I’m putting my career on the line,” Takaichi stated when announcing the election plans. She wants voters to assess her policies on economic reform, military strength, and immigration.
Despite her strong approval ratings, the LDP struggles with public perception, partly due to recent scandals. Traditional supporters are now leaning towards far-right populist parties like the anti-globalist Sanseito.
Rising Tensions and Military Focus
The comments on Taiwan have escalated Japan’s tensions with China, resulting in economic and diplomatic fallout. Takaichi is pushing for a military buildup and increased defense spending, aligning with Trump’s requests for Japan to strengthen its military capabilities.
A Splintered Opposition
Takaichi is counting on a mandate to implement her agenda with the Japan Innovation Party (JIP), her new coalition partner. They have agreed to prioritize a stronger military and the reactivation of nuclear reactors. This coalition formed after the LDP’s long-time ally, Komeito, left due to ideological differences.
Komeito has since joined forces with the Constitutional Democratic Party of Japan to form the Centrist Reform Alliance. Former Prime Minister Yoshihiko Noda, now a leader in the alliance, emphasizes a focus on diversity and inclusivity in governance. However, opinions suggest that opposition parties remain fragmented, with polling indicating a struggle for unified success.
Takaichi’s Promises
As concerns over rising prices and stagnant wages grow, Takaichi is focusing on economic measures to gain voter support. She also plans to revise security and defense policies, lift restrictions on arms exports, and tighten immigration rules, responding to a rise in anti-foreign sentiments within Japan.
Recent research shows that economic insecurity remains a top concern for many voters, making Takaichi’s promises both timely and crucial. As Japan heads toward a pivotal election, the political landscape is set for significant changes that could shape the country’s future.
For further insight into Japan’s political climate, check out the latest analysis from Nikkei Asia.
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Sanae Takaichi, Donald Trump, Elections, Japan government, China, Japan, General news, Asia Pacific, Send to Apple News, Yoshihiko Noda, Government and politics, Shigeru Ishiba, Business, Taiwan, Beijing, World news
