Japan’s PM Takaichi Plans Snap Election, Faces Budget and Political Risks
Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi has informed a senior ruling Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) official that she intends to dissolve the House of Representatives when the regular Diet session begins on Jan. 23, paving the way for a snap election, Kyodo News reported Tuesday, citing a source familiar with the matter.
The prime minister is expected to make an official announcement soon. If the lower house is dissolved, two election schedules are being considered: one with official campaigning starting Jan. 27 and voting on Feb. 8, and another with campaigning beginning Feb. 3 and voting on Feb. 15.
Recent opinion polls indicate that public support for the Takaichi cabinet remains relatively high, fueling calls within the LDP for an early dissolution and general election, the report said. Since taking office, Takaichi has emphasized that livelihood-related issues, including measures to tackle high prices, should remain a top priority.
However, Japanese media have warned that dissolving the lower house at the start of the Diet session could delay the passage of the 2026 fiscal budget until April or later. In that scenario, the government may be forced to implement a provisional budget to maintain operations, a move expected to significantly affect citizens’ daily lives.
Takaichi’s decision has drawn criticism both within the LDP and from opposition parties, with detractors arguing that she is prioritizing party interests over her earlier pledges and the public good.
