TOKYO, Japan: Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba faces the challenge of leading a minority government after the ruling Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) suffered a major defeat in snap elections.
Ishiba’s gamble in calling early elections, shortly after taking office in October, backfired as voters, disillusioned by a funding scandal, handed the LDP its worst performance in 15 years.
The party secured only 191 seats, far below the 233-seat majority in the 456-member lower house, marking a significant drop from the 259 seats won in the 2021 election. Junior coalition partner Komeito also saw losses, securing just 24 seats.
This election also witnessed gains by the opposition Constitutional Democratic Party (CDP), led by Yoshihiko Noda, which saw its seat count rise to 148.
The election’s results have cast doubts on Ishiba’s political future, with key figures such as Shinjiro Koizumi resigning from the LDP’s election committee.
Analysts suggest Ishiba may lead a minority government, though factions within the LDP loyal to former PM Shinzo Abe may eventually challenge his leadership. Additionally, this election ushered in a record number of women lawmakers, though they still represent less than 16 percent of the legislature.
These results reflect broader voter discontent with the status quo, as Japan faces ongoing economic and demographic challenges, including regional revitalization and a declining population.
