Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi has staked her political future on the upcoming general election, vowing to resign immediately if the ruling coalition fails to secure a majority in the House of Representatives. The declaration came during a heated party leaders' debate on Monday, where Takaichi emphasized that losing public confidence would render her unable to advance key policies.
The ruling Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) and its ally, the Japan Innovation Party, face a critical test as voters prepare to cast ballots on February 8. With the official campaign period beginning Tuesday, candidates have just 16 days to make their case—the shortest campaign window in Japan's postwar history.
Opposition leaders challenged Takaichi's definition of electoral defeat during the debate, prompting her to clarify: "If our alliance cannot secure over half the seats, I will step down as prime minister and LDP president without delay." The remarks set the stage for a high-stakes contest that could reshape Japan's political landscape.
Analysts note the snap election—triggered by the lower house dissolution on January 23—comes amid growing public debate over economic reforms and regional security challenges. Campaign finance regulations and pandemic recovery measures are expected to dominate voter discussions in the coming days.
