Japan's political situation

Sources: Prime Minister may call election in February

Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi is considering calling a general election in early or mid-February, the Yomiuri newspaper reported, citing government sources.

Takaichi, who is Japan's first female prime minister, is currently enjoying high public opinion and hopes to capitalize on her support in a snap election.

Takaichi took power in October and her liberal party, the LDP, governs together with the far-right Ishin Party. They are just a few seats away from a majority in the lower house.

Analysis: Challenges await Takaichi despite public opinion

Sanae Takaichi has had a good start as Japanese prime minister, but the new year brings new challenges. NHK's Oikawa Jun says Takaichi enjoys high levels of trust among the Japanese population.

– Her leadership seems to attract a lot of people. I think it has to do with her promises to strengthen the economy.

According to sources in the Yomiuri newspaper, Takaichi is expected to call a parliamentary election in February. Jun believes that it is a tricky time to call an election now. Takaichi and her coalition certainly have high confidence, but her party, the LDP, do not have the same support.

Michael MacArthur Bosack writes in The Japan Times that for the first time in a long time, the country is entering a new year with stable domestic politics on the horizon. Although things look good right now, there are several important issues that the government must deal with.

Among other things, the coalition risks having problems getting bills passed due to the lack of a majority in parliament. In addition, Takaichi must “navigate” the new collaboration with the far-right Ishin party.

If she wants to be able to maintain her popularity and her job as the country’s leader, she must also find ways to solve “deep-rooted economic problems,” says MacArthur Bosack.