(Adnkronos) – Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi has reportedly expressed her intention to dissolve the House of Representatives immediately after the opening of the ordinary parliamentary session on January 23. Government party officials reported this after a meeting with Takaichi herself. Hirofumi Yoshimura, leader of the Japan Innovation Party, a minor partner in the coalition led by the Liberal Democratic Party, told reporters that the official announcement is expected on Monday.
In the event of an immediate dissolution of the Lower House, the election campaign for early general elections could begin on January 27 or February 3, with voting on February 8 or 15 respectively. The consultations would thus be held less than a year and a half after the last election, while the Japanese Constitution provides for a four-year term for deputies unless dissolved early.
Despite a slim majority in the House of Representatives, the Takaichi government has maintained high popularity levels since the Prime Minister took office last October. The coalition remains a minority in the House of Councillors and requires the support of the opposition for the approval of measures. Opposition parties have criticized the prospect of early elections, warning that they could delay the process of the initial budget for fiscal year 2026, contrary to Takaichi’s promise to prioritize the implementation of her policies.
