The coalition's declining support may also be exacerbated by the emergence of the right-leaning Sanseito party, which has taken advantage of anti-immigration sentiments to attract conservative voters. As Japan grapples with increasing foreign residents and tourism, Ishiba's recent initiatives to address "nuisance behaviors" related to immigration issues signal the government's response to public discontent. Should the coalition's projected losses materialize, Japan's political drama could intensify at a crucial juncture amidst US-Japan trade discussions.
Japan's Ruling Coalition Faces Majority Loss Amid Voter Frustration
Japan's Ruling Coalition Faces Majority Loss Amid Voter Frustration
Japan's political landscape shifts as exit polls indicate a significant decline for the ruling coalition led by Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba, provoking concerns over its future governance.
Exit polls from Japan's latest elections suggest that Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba's ruling coalition may lose its majority, raising concerns over the stability of his government. Voter sentiment has soured due to rising prices and trade tensions with the United States. Polls indicated that the Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) and its junior partner Komeito risked losing their grip on power, required to secure 50 seats in the upper chamber of parliament, but were projected to win only between 32 and 51 seats. This potential loss could signify the coalition's worst performance since its inception in 1999, as Ishiba struggles to gain public confidence amid economic struggles, inflation, and recurring political scandals. Past instances show that LDP leaders who have suffered majority losses tend to step down swiftly, opening the door for potential challengers within the party.
