New Japanese Prime Minister Eyes Parliament Dissolution for Snap Polls

Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi has informed a governing party executive that she intends to dissolve the country’s lower house parliament next week, according to reports from the Kyodo news agency. The decision is expected to take place on January 23 at the beginning of the regular session of the Diet.

Takaichi plans to declare the dissolution of parliament, which will pave the way for snap elections in Japan. The Liberal Democratic Party (LDP), once a dominant force, hopes to increase its parliamentary seats in the lower house. An early election could help boost the majority held by the ruling coalition of the LDP and the Japan Innovation Party.

Takaichi’s intention is to implement her agenda of more “proactive” fiscal spending and stronger intelligence capacities with a bigger majority. The prime minister has remained silent about calling an early general election, but reports suggest she will make a final decision on snap elections while considering her diplomatic schedule.

Leaders of the Japanese opposition parties have agreed to work together to counter Takaichi’s coalition in the event of snap polls. Meanwhile, the Democratic Party for the People has warned that dissolving the lower house before the budget is passed would put the economy at risk.

Takaichi hosted South Korean President Lee Jae Myung on Tuesday to discuss security and economic ties. Tokyo shares jumped over 3 percent on speculation that Takaichi will call snap elections to capitalize on strong poll numbers. The prime minister’s decision could also help break a diplomatic deadlock with China, which has deteriorated since she suggested Japan could intervene militarily in the event of an attack on Taiwan.

Japan last held general elections in October 2024, when the LDP lost its majority under Takaichi’s predecessor, Shigeru Ishiba.

Source: Al Jazeera