A growing number of Japan’s main governing Liberal Democratic Party lawmakers expect Prime Minister Takaichi Sanae to dissolve the Lower House at the onset of the ordinary Diet session later this month.
When asked about a possible Lower House dissolution, Takaichi said it is important for the people to feel the effects of the government’s economic policy and its measures to stem rising prices.
Takaichi said the government is currently working to resolve these issues.
The Takaichi administration now holds a slim majority in the Lower House after three independent lawmakers joined the LDP’s group in the chamber. But in the Upper House it is still in the minority.
There is a growing view within the ruling parties that the prime minister will dissolve the Lower House for a snap election when the ordinary Diet session is expected to begin on January 23. Then, a general election could be held early, or in the middle of February.
LDP policy chief Kobayashi Takayuki said the prime minister has the sole authority to dissolve the Lower House. He also said that Lower House members should always be prepared as if they were on a battlefield.
Some LDP members say that it is understandable for Takaichi to dissolve the chamber as her Cabinet’s approval rate remains high.
Fujita Fumitake is a co-representative of the Japan Innovation Party, which is the LDP’s coalition partner. He said that Lower House members need to keep in mind that they are on a battlefield and should be ready to fight.
Noda Yoshihiko, the president of the opposition Constitutional Democratic Party of Japan, said that Takaichi has vowed to “work, work and work.” He said that Takaichi will be scrutinized for seeking a popular mandate and not working to fight rising prices or help the economy.
Tamaki Yuichiro, the leader of the Democratic Party for the People, posted on social media that Lower House members should be prepared for an election. He added that he will accelerate the process of fielding candidates.
Komeito Representative Saito Tetsuo stressed the utmost priority is not the political situation, but measures against inflation.
The Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications has instructed the election board in each prefecture to prepare for possible general elections.
Observers say that Takaichi will focus on her summit meetings with South Korean and Italian leaders scheduled for later this week.
Before making a final decision, the prime minister may take into account the possible impact a snap election will have on deliberations of the budget plan for fiscal 2026, as well as public opinion.
AloJapan.com