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Takaichi announces parliamentary dissolution ahead of February vote
Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi confirmed on Monday that she will dissolve parliament this Friday, setting the stage for a general election on February 8. The move aims to secure a stronger mandate for her administration amid high approval ratings but rising political challenges.
Election details and political stakes
The vote will determine all 465 seats in the House of Representatives, Japan's more influential legislative chamber. Takaichi framed the decision as a pivotal moment for the nation, urging voters to "determine Japan's course together" in a press conference.
Her Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) currently holds 199 seats-including three from allied independents-while its coalition with the Japan Innovation Party maintains a slim majority. A victory would solidify Takaichi's position as Japan's first female leader, nicknamed the "Iron Lady" for her uncompromising stance.
Foreign policy tensions and defense spending
Takaichi's tenure has been marked by escalating regional security concerns. In December, her cabinet approved a record $57 billion defense budget, citing China's military activities as Japan's "greatest strategic challenge."
Relations with Beijing have deteriorated since November, when Takaichi suggested Japan might deploy its self-defense forces in response to a potential Taiwan conflict. The remarks triggered a diplomatic rift, pushing bilateral ties to their lowest point in over a decade.
Conversely, Takaichi has strengthened ties with Washington, signing agreements on rare earth minerals and declaring a "golden age" of U.S.-Japan relations during President Donald Trump's October visit.
Domestic agenda and economic policies
On the home front, Takaichi champions government-led stimulus, reviving the "Abenomics" playbook of her mentor, former Prime Minister Shinzo Abe. Her administration maintains approval ratings between 60% and 80% in recent polls, but risks loom.
Japan's opposition has consolidated, with the Constitutional Democratic Party of Japan merging with the Komeito party-formerly the LDP's coalition partner-to form the Centrist Reform Alliance. The new bloc poses a formidable challenge in the upcoming election.
Historical precedent and risks
Takaichi's snap election strategy mirrors that of her predecessor, Shigeru Ishiba, whose 2021 gamble backfired, delivering one of the LDP's worst electoral performances and costing the party its majority. With Japan cycling through four prime ministers in five years, stability remains elusive.
"This is an extremely weighty decision. I ask the people to entrust me with running Japan."
Sanae Takaichi, Japanese Prime Minister
