Japan’s Prime Minister Takaichi Poised to Call Snap Election
Japan is preparing for a dramatic political moment as Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi looks set to dissolve parliament and call a snap election. The move, expected in early 2026, would mark one of the earliest snap polls in the country’s postwar history and is seen as a bold gamble to strengthen her leadership.
Takaichi, who recently became Japan’s first female prime minister, is riding high on strong approval ratings. Analysts believe she wants to seize the momentum before it fades, securing a fresh mandate for her Liberal Democratic Party and its coalition partners. By doing so, she hopes to silence critics within her party and push forward her agenda with confidence.
The timing is significant. Japan is facing economic strain, with rising defence spending and the largest extra budget since pandemic restrictions were lifted. At the same time, regional tensions are growing, particularly after Takaichi’s outspoken comments on Taiwan, which have already stirred controversy in China. Calling an election now could give her the political backing she needs to navigate these challenges.
Emergency preparations are already underway, with the Diet scheduled to convene on 23 January. If Takaichi follows through, the election would be announced shortly after, setting the stage for a high-stakes contest.
While supporters see her decision as decisive and bold, critics warn it could backfire. A snap election during economic uncertainty carries risks, and if voters turn against her, she could weaken her position or even lose power.
In simple words: Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi is set to call a snap election, hoping to secure her authority and strengthen her party’s grip on power, but the gamble could either cement her leadership or put it at risk.