Japan's political landscape just got a major shake-up: Komeito, the longtime junior partner of the LDP, announced it's ending their 26-year coalition! 😲 What triggered this split, and how will it affect Sanae Takaichi's historic bid to become Japan's first female prime minister? Here’s the lowdown:
Why Komeito Walked Out
At a Friday meeting, Komeito chief Tetsuo Saito told LDP leader Sanae Takaichi that the ruling party’s response to a big political funds scandal was “insufficient.” Komeito wants tighter limits on corporate donations to curb special interests, but the LDP, which relies heavily on business support, isn’t on board. Feeling ignored, Komeito decided to go solo.
Impact on Takaichi’s PM Race
Sanae Takaichi won the LDP’s leadership race on October 4, making her the party’s first female head. Now, she must secure a majority in Japan’s Diet (parliament) to become prime minister. With the LDP holding 196 seats in the lower house and 100 in the upper, and Komeito adding 24 and 21 seats respectively, the math gets trickier without Komeito’s votes.
- Lower house majority: 233 seats needed
- Upper house majority: 125 seats needed
Still, if no one gets a clear majority, a second-round runoff in the lower house could tip in Takaichi’s favor—especially if opposition parties can’t unite.
What’s Next for Japan’s Policies
Domestic agenda: Tougher to pass laws alone, risk of political gridlock and longer “political vacuum” until a new cabinet forms (likely after October 20).
Foreign affairs: Japan’s next PM was set to host important visits (like a U.S. president’s trip) and attend the APEC Economic Leaders’ Meeting. Any delay means less prep time for these big events. 🌏⏳
As the Diet gears up to vote, all eyes are on whether Takaichi can forge new alliances or if the LDP will govern solo. Either way, Japan’s next chapter promises drama—stay tuned! 📺
Reference(s):
Explainer: What's next for Japan after ruling coalition splits?
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