Japan's PM Takaichi Calls Snap Election for Stronger Mandate

Mon Jan 19 2026 17:41:32 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

Sanae Takaichi, Japan's first female prime minister, announces a snap election just three months into her term, seeking a stronger mandate amid rising domestic and international challenges.

Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi has announced the dissolution of parliament, paving the way for a snap election on February 8. Takaichi, who has enjoyed strong public support since assuming office, aims to solidify her governing power. However, the decision comes with risks, including potential challenges from a newly formed opposition alliance. As Takaichi’s government continues to face scrutiny over military spending and diplomatic relations, her administration’s future could hinge on the upcoming election's outcome.

Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi will dissolve parliament on Friday, paving the way for an election next month that she hopes will give her a stronger mandate to govern. It was an 'extremely weighty decision' that would 'determine Japan's course together with the people', Takaichi told a news conference. She encouraged voters to entrust her with running Japan. The vote to elect the 465 members of the House of Representatives, the lower and more powerful house in Japan, will take place on 8 February. Takaichi and her cabinet have enjoyed high public support since taking office last October.

The Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) currently holds 199 seats in the House of Representatives, allowing for a coalition majority. Known as Japan's 'Iron Lady', Takaichi is a close ally of former Prime Minister Shinzo Abe and advocates for robust defense measures amid regional tensions, particularly concerning China. Her administration recently approved a record defense budget amid rising military concerns from China, termed as the country's 'greatest strategic challenge'.

Takaichi's controversies emerged following her comments on potential military responses if China attacked Taiwan, which sparked diplomatic tensions. Nevertheless, her cabinet has sustained approval ratings ranging from 60-80%.

However, her snap election decision is fraught with risks; the LDP's recent leadership history has been unstable, and Takaichi is the fourth prime minister in five years. Her predecessor’s snap election led to significant losses for the LDP. Additionally, a newly formed opposition coalition, the Centrist Reform Alliance, could pose a serious challenge in the upcoming election, potentially reshaping Japan’s political landscape.