A commanding mandate at the polls
Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi looks set for a decisive victory after snap elections, with media projections showing her ruling Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) and its allies securing a two-thirds majority in the lower house. If confirmed, it would mark the party’s strongest performance since 2017, during the era of her mentor, former prime minister Shinzo Abe. Estimates suggest the LDP alone could win around 300 of the 465 seats, reclaiming a dominant position in parliament and potentially governing without coalition support.
LDP Secretary General Shunichi Suzuki said voters had endorsed Takaichi’s “responsible, proactive fiscal policies” and her push to strengthen Japan’s defence capabilities. Meanwhile, the main opposition bloc suffered heavy losses, while smaller parties such as the anti-immigration Sanseito made modest gains.
Rebuilding trust and tackling the economy
Since becoming Japan’s first woman prime minister last October, the 64-year-old Takaichi has revived the LDP’s fortunes after years of declining support linked to rising living costs and political scandals. Once seen as a fringe ultra-conservative within the party, she has broadened her appeal, particularly among younger voters.
Her early months in office included a $135 billion stimulus package to ease inflation pressures, followed by campaign pledges to suspend consumption tax on food. Still, significant challenges loom. Japan’s public debt exceeds twice the size of its economy, and rising bond yields have unsettled global markets, putting pressure on her government to balance economic relief with fiscal discipline.
Regional tensions and a wary Beijing
Takaichi’s strong showing at home could complicate relations abroad, especially with China. Known for her hawkish stance, she raised alarm in Beijing shortly after taking office by suggesting Japan might intervene militarily if China attempted to seize Taiwan by force.
China reacted angrily, summoning Japan’s ambassador, warning its citizens against travel to Japan, and holding joint military drills with Russia. The return of Japan’s last two pandas to China underscored the chill in relations. With a renewed mandate now likely secured, Takaichi’s next test will be managing these regional tensions while delivering on voters’ expectations at home.
