Japanese PM Announces Early Elections

The Prime Minister of Japan, Sanae Takaichi, announced on Sunday the dissolution of the lower house of parliament and the calling of early legislative elections for February 8. This political move is aimed at reinforcing her leadership, securing her own majority, and addressing an increasingly complex international scenario, marked by the strategic dispute with China over Taiwan and the internal debate on increased defense spending. As the head of government confirmed at a press conference, the formal dissolution of parliament will take place on January 23, while the electoral campaign will begin on the 27th of that month. In this way, Japan will face an unusually short electoral process, of just over ten days, which will culminate in the voting and counting of ballots on February 8. Takaichi, who took office on October 21, 2025, and became the first woman in history to lead the Japanese executive, seeks to capitalize on the high level of popularity she has enjoyed since coming to power. The growing tensions between China and Taiwan have become a key factor in Japan's security policy.