Overview
- The LDP General Council unanimously approved the initial fiscal 2026 budget, which includes the largest-ever general-account spending.
- With most factions dissolved except Taro Aso’s, lawmakers lacking organizational backing and fearing an anti-Takaichi label have largely kept public criticism in check.
- Former prime minister Shigeru Ishiba faulted Takaichi’s Taiwan-related remarks and opposed the coalition bill to cut 45 lower-house seats, which has been put on hold after opposition protests.
- Fumio Kishida accepted a leadership role heading the party’s growth strategy unit, while people close to him say he has privately complained about China’s response, including a de facto renewed ban on some Japanese marine products.
- The regular Diet session opens on Jan. 23 with daily questioning expected, and a Takaichi aide warns that a downturn in approval ratings could rapidly shift the party’s internal dynamics.