Japan’s first female prime minister, Sanae Takaichi, has staked her political future on a snap election this Sunday, seeking a stronger mandate for her conservative agenda amid high personal popularity but party challenges. The gamble could reshape Japan’s political landscape, with potential shifts in defense policy and economic reforms.
Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi called the snap election for February 8, just four months into her tenure, catching many by surprise. She aims to secure a parliamentary majority for the long-ruling Liberal Democratic Party (LDP), which lost its majority in the previous election. Takaichi has framed the vote as necessary to pursue bold policies that might divide public opinion, including constitutional revision and a tougher stance on national defense.
Takaichi’s approval ratings have soared to between 55% and 70%, driven by her energetic public persona and diplomatic engagements. She has cultivated a celebrity-like image, appealing to younger voters through social media and viral moments, such as playing drums with South Korea’s president. This personal appeal contrasts with the LDP’s traditionally stagnant reputation and has helped distance her from past party scandals, including a political funding corruption case.
However, the election is not without risks. Her predecessor, Shigeru Ishiba, attempted a similar snap election last year and suffered a devastating loss, costing the LDP its majority. Takaichi is betting that her high popularity will translate into electoral success, but analysts warn that elections are about parties, not just personalities. The LDP’s internal dynamics remain fragile, and a poor result could force Takaichi to resign, as she has implied.
Key issues in the campaign include rising cost-of-living pressures, stagnant wages, and a weak yen, which have left many voters frustrated. Takaichi has promised public spending and tax cuts, but details are vague. Meanwhile, her hawkish comments on Taiwan have escalated tensions with China, leading to diplomatic protests and travel warnings. While this stance strengthens her support among conservatives, it risks economic repercussions and isolation.
The opposition is fragmented, with a newly formed centrist alliance between the Constitutional Democratic Party and Komeito struggling to gain traction. Far-right parties like Sanseito have sharpened debate on immigration and nationalism, but Takaichi’s conservative credentials have drawn some voters back to the LDP. Despite this, the economy poses a significant challenge, with Japan facing labor shortages and an ageing population that complicates immigration policy.
If Takaichi secures a majority, she is expected to push for constitutional changes to allow for a more assertive military posture, potentially revisiting Japan’s non-nuclear principles. She also plans to visit Washington soon after the election to meet with former President Donald Trump, who has endorsed her. However, prolonged tensions with China could hurt Japan’s economy, and domestic economic woes may quickly dampen any post-election honeymoon.
The outcome will determine whether Takaichi can consolidate power and implement her agenda or face political oblivion. With voting set for Sunday, all eyes are on whether Japan’s electorate will reward her gamble or demand a change in direction, setting the stage for a pivotal moment in the nation’s politics.
