Japan's ruling Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) is reportedly planning to dissolve the country's Lower House and hold a snap election, likely in February.
Reports suggest the LDP aims to leverage Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi's high approval ratings to strengthen the ruling coalition's position. Japan's Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications has reportedly instructed election boards to prepare for a general election.
Prime Minister Takaichi's approval ratings currently stand at 75%, marking the third consecutive month above 70%, according to a Nikkei survey.
This potential election would occur approximately four months into Takaichi's term. It would be the first election where the LDP campaigns alongside its junior coalition partner, the Japan Innovation Party (JIP).
JIP leader Hirofumi Yoshimura stated that the prime minister's perspective on the election timing had advanced to a "new stage." The LDP and JIP, with the support of three independents, hold a narrow majority of 233 seats in the 465-seat Lower House. However, the coalition is a minority in the Upper House, holding 119 of 250 seats.
Tokyo has also been involved in a diplomatic disagreement with Beijing. This follows comments made by Prime Minister Takaichi in November regarding potential Japanese Self-Defense Forces intervention in response to Chinese military action against Taiwan.