Japan's political landscape faces turbulence as Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi dissolved the House of Representatives this week, triggering the first snap election at the start of a parliamentary session since 1966. Opposition leaders unanimously condemned the move, arguing it jeopardizes critical economic planning amid rising inflation.
Budget Delays Spark Outcry
The dissolution came hours after Friday's opening of the ordinary Diet session, which was expected to prioritize approval of the 2026 fiscal budget. Yoshihiko Noda of the Centrist Reform Alliance told Kyodo News: "There's no justification for this decision while Japan faces urgent challenges."
Economic Concerns Take Center Stage
Democratic Party for the People leader Yuichiro Tamaki criticized the timing: "This dissolution puts the economy second." Japanese Communist Party Chair Tomoko Tamura highlighted how "rising prices are crushing household budgets" while accusing Takaichi of avoiding public debate.
Election Timeline Set
Following an extraordinary cabinet meeting, officials announced voting will occur February 8 with candidate registration starting January 27. The compressed timeline leaves just 12 days for campaigning amid winter weather challenges.
