Japan PM Sanae Takaichi Set for Landslide Victory in Snap Parliamentary Election

Tokyo: Japan’s Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi appears to set for a decisive victory in Sunday’s snap parliamentary election, with media projections and early results indicating a sweeping win for her ruling coalition. According to broadcaster NHK and exit polls, Takaichi’s Liberal Democratic Party (LDP), along with its junior partner, the Japan Innovation Party, is on track to win a super-majority in the 465-seat lower house. If confirmed, this would mark one of the most commanding victories for the party in recent years.

Initial estimates by national broadcaster NHK suggest that the LDP could secure between 274 and 328 seats, while the broader ruling bloc might capture more than 310 seats, giving it control of a two-thirds majority. This outcome would significantly strengthen Takaichi’s parliamentary position and allow her to push through key parts of her agenda with minimal resistance.

Takaichi, who became Japan’s first female prime minister late last year, called the early poll just three months into her tenure, seeking a clear mandate to pursue her economic and security policies. Her campaign has emphasized bold fiscal measures, including suspending the consumption tax on food to ease living costs, while also promising stronger national defence and more assertive foreign policy postures.

The snap election has followed a period of political turbulence for the LDP, which lost its lower house majority in 2024. Takaichi’s leadership, buoyed by high personal approval ratings and appeal among younger voters, appears to have revitalized the party’s standing and turned the tide back in its favour.

However, the projected landslide also carries implications beyond domestic politics. Analysts warn the result could heighten diplomatic tensions with China, especially after Takaichi’s remarks on Taiwan and plans to expand Japan’s defence capabilities.

With the ruling coalition poised for a commanding majority, Takaichi is expected to steer Japan toward significant policy shifts, shaping the country’s political landscape for years to come.