Speaker of Japan's House of Representatives Nukaga Fukushiro announced the dissolution of the body this afternoon, as lawmakers stood shouting "banzai". Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi's cabinet later confirmed plans to hold an election. Political parties will begin campaigning on 27/1, with voters casting ballots on 8/2.
This marks the shortest election campaign in Japanese history and the first time an election has occurred in February since 1990. February is typically when Japan's parliament discusses the budget for the upcoming fiscal year, which starts in April. The budget bill requires approval from both Japan's lower house and upper house by 31/3.
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Lawmakers stand after Speaker Fukushiro announced the dissolution of Japan's lower house on 23/1. *AP photo* |
Japanese citizens will elect 465 seats in the lower house, with 289 seats allocated by electoral districts. The remaining 176 seats are distributed among parties based on their national vote share. This election takes place during the coldest period, raising concerns about voter turnout.
Takaichi was appointed Japan's first female Prime Minister in October 2025, and her cabinet currently enjoys an approval rating of about 70%.
Before the dissolution, the ruling coalition, comprising the Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) and the Japan Innovation Party (JIP), held a slim majority in the lower house with 233 seats. However, they were in the minority in the upper house, which could hinder the government's ability to advance its ambitious agenda.
Analysts suggest Takaichi hopes to secure a larger majority after the general election, giving her more control over the legislative agenda, particularly budget matters. A poll conducted by Sankei Shimbun and Fuji Television in late December 2025 indicated Takaichi's government received approximately 90% support from voters under 30.
"It's unclear whether this support will translate into votes for the LDP. The public's main concern is measures to combat inflation," said Hidehiro Yamamoto, a political science professor at Tsukuba University.
Nhu Tam (Based on AFP, Reuters)
