Japanese Prime Minister Confirms Early Dissolution of Parliament

On Monday, at a press conference, Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takahichi confirmed that she had decided to dissolve the lower house of parliament early in order to hold elections.

“Today, as Prime Minister, I announce the dissolution of the lower house,” she stated.

The new session of parliament is set to begin on January 23.

“I want the people to decide for themselves whether to trust the governance of the country to me, Sanae Takahichi. The citizens of Japan cannot directly elect the Prime Minister. Nevertheless, elections to the lower house are considered decisive for forming a government. If the Liberal Democratic Party and the Japan Innovation Party (Nippon Ishin no Kai) gain a majority of seats, I will remain in the position of Prime Minister,” the head of government added.

She also noted that the LDP currently does not have a majority in either house of parliament, even though its leader holds the position of Prime Minister. Additionally, there have been changes in the composition of the ruling coalition following the exit of the Komeito party.

“For this reason, we decided to appeal directly to the people, rather than relying on political interests,” Takahichi emphasized.

The elections for the lower house of parliament are scheduled for February 8.