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Japan’s PM Sanae Takaichi to Call Snap Election Amid Economic and Diplomatic Challenges
Japan’s PM Sanae Takaichi plans to dissolve parliament next week for a snap election, seeking public backing for her spending plans and sending a message to China over Taiwan tensions.
ND
by News Desk
2026-01-14
Japan’s PM Sanae Takaichi to Call Snap Election Amid Economic and Diplomatic Challenges

Japan’s Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi plans to dissolve parliament next week and call a snap parliamentary election, party officials confirmed on Wednesday. The move comes as Takaichi seeks public approval for ambitious spending plans that have unsettled financial markets.

According to Shunichi Suzuki, secretary general of the ruling Liberal Democratic Party (LDP), the prime minister will outline her plans next Monday. Sources say the election could be held on February 8, 2026.

Takaichi, Japan’s first female prime minister, has gained a surge in public support since taking office in October. She formed a new coalition with the right-wing Japan Innovation Party (Ishin) after breaking with Komeito, the LDP’s previous liberal partner. “The public has not yet rendered a verdict on the change in our coalition partner,” Suzuki noted.

The upcoming vote will also test public sentiment on Takaichi’s proposals to increase government spending, revive economic growth, and boost defense outlays under a revised national security strategy. Reports that a snap poll was being considered recently triggered a selloff in the yen and Japanese government bonds, reflecting investor concern over Japan’s debt levels and fiscal expansion.

The election also carries a significant diplomatic dimension. Takaichi’s statements last year warning that a Chinese attack on Taiwan could pose an existential threat to Japan have heightened tensions with Beijing, which has demanded a retraction. China has since advised its citizens against traveling to Japan and imposed curbs on dual-use exports.

“The election would presumably be won on her handling of the economy,” said Jeremy Chan, senior analyst for Northeast Asia at Eurasia Group. “A convincing victory would also signal to Beijing that her leadership is stable and resistant to coercive pressure.”

With the snap election potentially complicating the passage of Japan’s 2026 budget before the fiscal year ends in March, reports suggest Takaichi may consider a temporary spending measure to bridge the gap.

The snap election will serve as both a referendum on Takaichi’s economic agenda and a test of public support for her foreign policy stance amid rising regional tensions.
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