Tokyo: Japan’s Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi has announced the dissolution of parliament and called a snap general election, seeking a fresh mandate for her spending agenda and broader policy priorities just three months into office.
Addressing reporters, Takaichi said the lower house would be dissolved on January 23, clearing the way for nationwide elections on February 8. The vote will decide all 465 seats in the powerful lower chamber and mark her first major electoral test since becoming Japan’s first female prime minister.
By calling an early election, Takaichi aims to capitalise on strong public approval ratings and consolidate her authority within the ruling Liberal Democratic Party. A decisive win could also help stabilise her coalition, which currently holds a fragile majority in parliament.
Political analysts say an early contest allows Takaichi to move quickly before economic pressures or internal party rivalries erode public support.
The election campaign is expected to focus heavily on the economy, particularly the rising cost of living. A recent poll by public broadcaster NHK showed that 45 percent of voters consider price rises their biggest concern, far outweighing issues such as diplomacy and national security.
Takaichi’s proposed spending plans will be closely scrutinised by voters worried about inflation and household budgets, even as the government argues that fiscal measures are needed to sustain growth.
A clear electoral mandate could also strengthen Takaichi’s hand in foreign policy, particularly amid strained ties with China. Relations worsened late last year after she suggested Japan could respond militarily if China moved against Taiwan. Beijing has since restricted exports of dual-use goods and rare-earth materials critical to Japanese industries.
Despite the tensions, Takaichi has signalled openness to dialogue, while balancing regional diplomacy. Earlier this month, she hosted South Korean President Lee Jae Myung in Nara to discuss security and economic cooperation, underlining efforts to maintain strong ties with key regional partners.
