Japan PM Takaichi to dissolve parliament and call snap election

Monday 19 January 2026 - 11:30

By: Sahili Aya

Japan PM Takaichi to dissolve parliament and call snap election

Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi announced on Monday that she will dissolve parliament on Friday and call a nationwide election, seeking a stronger public mandate to advance her economic and security policies.

The snap election will determine all 465 seats in the lower house and represent the first major electoral test for Takaichi since she became Japan’s first female prime minister in October. By moving quickly, she aims to capitalize on relatively strong approval ratings and reinforce her leadership within the ruling Liberal Democratic Party, while stabilizing a fragile coalition majority.

Takaichi’s agenda includes increased government spending and a revised national security strategy that would accelerate Japan’s defense buildup amid regional and global uncertainties. However, the vote also comes at a sensitive time for voters, as rising living costs remain the country’s primary concern.

According to a recent poll by public broadcaster NHK, 45% of respondents identified inflation and prices as their top issue, far outweighing concerns related to diplomacy and national security.

The election outcome is expected to shape Japan’s political direction and determine how much room the prime minister will have to implement her ambitious reforms.