In a surprise move, Japan’s Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi has announced the dissolution of the lower house of the Diet, the country’s parliament, on 23 January, with a snap election to follow on 8 February. Takaichi, who took office just three months ago after the resignation of her predecessor, is seeking to capitalise on her high approval ratings and reverse the recent poor election results of her Liberal Democratic Party (LDP).
Speaking at a press conference, Takaichi described the decision as “very difficult”, saying she is “putting my future as prime minister on the line” and wants the people to directly decide if they can entrust her with the management of the country. The next lower house election was not due until October 2028, but Takaichi appears confident she can use her personal popularity to her advantage.
The LDP and its former junior coalition partner Komeito lost their majorities in both the powerful lower house and the upper house in recent elections, forcing Takaichi to form a fragile partnership with the populist Japan Innovation Party when she became prime minister. Her tenure has been marked by a deepening dispute with China over the security of Taiwan, with Takaichi suggesting Japan could become militarily involved if its own security is threatened.
Domestically, the LDP faces scrutiny over a lingering political funding scandal and the rising cost of living, which is the main concern for 45% of respondents in a recent poll. In response, the coalition is considering suspending the 8% consumption tax on food items for two years and banning political fundraisers by ministers to ease public anger.
The snap election also comes as a new centrist party, formed through a merger of the main opposition Constitutional Democratic Party of Japan and the LDP’s former coalition partner Komeito, poses a fresh challenge to Takaichi’s fragile majority. The new Centrist Reform Alliance has pledged to move away from divisive, confrontational politics.
With the economy, diplomacy and national security all in focus, Takaichi is betting that her personal popularity and a decisive election victory can strengthen her hand and provide the mandate she needs to lead Japan through these turbulent times.