Tokyo: Japan’s political landscape has witnessed a significant shift as the far-right Sanseito party made a breakthrough in the upper house elections, winning 14 new seats and emerging as one of the biggest gainers in the 248-member chamber.
Previously holding just one seat, Sanseito now commands 15, a development that has stunned political observers and sent ripples through the ruling establishment.
Known for its nationalist ‘Japanese First’ message and vocal criticism of globalization and immigration, the party’s surge underscores growing voter disillusionment with traditional parties amid economic stagnation and rising living costs.
Founded during the COVID-19 pandemic and propelled by conspiracy theories about vaccines and global elites, Sanseito quickly built an online following. Its YouTube channel now boasts over 400,000 subscribers, more than three times that of the ruling Liberal Democratic Party (LDP).
Led by Sohei Kamiya, a former supermarket manager and English teacher, the party leveraged digital platforms to rally support from younger, economically frustrated voters. “The phrase ‘Japanese First’ was meant to express rebuilding Japanese people’s livelihoods by resisting globalism,” Kamiya told Nippon Television after the vote.
Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba’s LDP and coalition partner Komeito lost their majority in the upper house, compounding the challenges they faced after their earlier lower house defeat in October. Although immigration ranked only fifth among voters’ top concerns, 7 percent cited it in NHK’s pre-election polling, the Sanseito campaign capitalized on fears of foreign influence and rising crime.
Japan’s weakening currency and inflation, especially a doubling in rice prices over the past year, have further strained household budgets, fueling resentment and aiding populist narratives.
The LDP appeared to react swiftly to Sanseito’s rise. Just days before the election, Ishiba’s government announced a new task force to address “crimes and disorderly conduct” by foreigners and pledged a goal of “zero illegal foreigners.”
Like many opposition parties, Sanseito backs tax cuts and increased child benefits, proposals that have raised alarm among investors watching Japan’s massive debt. However, its unmatched digital presence gives it a unique advantage in shaping the national debate.
“This is just the beginning. By building a solid organization and securing 50 or 60 seats, I believe our policies will finally become a reality,” Kamiya said post-election.
