Figure: Sanae Takaichi, President of the Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) of Japan. (Source – Wikipedia)
Tokyo, Oct. 16 – Sanae Takaichi’s hopes of becoming Japan’s next prime minister appear uncertain following the Liberal Democratic Party’s recent loss of its coalition partner, Komeito. Although preliminary talks have started with the opposition Nippon Ishin no Kai party, it remains unclear whether a new alliance can be secured in time.
Takaichi, who was recently elected as leader of the ruling LDP, met on Wednesday with Hirofumi Yoshimura, head of Nippon Ishin and governor of Osaka. The two leaders discussed the possibility of working together, but no formal agreement was reached. With the LDP no longer holding a clear majority in the Lower House, support from other parties is now essential.
Following the meeting, Yoshimura stated that the conversation was productive and that further discussions would be held. However, he did not commit to backing Takaichi, highlighting that many details still need to be negotiated. Without a firm alliance, the LDP may struggle to win the upcoming vote for prime minister.
The end of the LDP-Komeito coalition has left the ruling party politically exposed. Although Nippon Ishin could potentially offer support, differences in policy and priorities between the parties may slow progress. Takaichi’s leadership is under pressure to build consensus quickly or risk losing control of the government.
As lawmakers prepare to vote next week, the outcome remains unpredictable. Unless the LDP can form a new coalition in time, Takaichi’s path to becoming Japan’s first female prime minister may be blocked. The coming days will likely determine both her political future and the direction of the country’s leadership.
For more please read : NHK World Japan, The Japan Times
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