Takaichi Moves to Call Early Election as Reports Point to Jan. 23 Dissolution

Overview

• On Jan. 14, Takaichi is expected to brief Liberal Democratic Party leaders on her intention to seek a snap election, according to Japanese media.
• The Nikkei reports she may dissolve the Lower House on Jan. 23 at the start of the Diet session, with NHK and Asahi citing coordination for a leadership meeting that could include the Japan Innovation Party.
• If the chamber is dissolved on that date, multiple outlets say voting could take place on Feb. 8.
• She aims to leverage approval ratings near 70% to expand the LDP’s seat count after months governing with a narrow Lower House majority and a minority in the Upper House.
• The government spokesperson declined to discuss timing, while Tokyo shares jumped more than 3% on Jan. 13 on speculation about an early vote.