Japan's Prime Minister Takaichi Plans Snap Election to Seek Fresh Mandate

Japan's Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi plans to dissolve the lower house of Parliament soon, likely on January 23, to trigger a snap election possibly scheduled for February 8. The election aims to secure a fresh public mandate and strengthen the ruling Liberal Democratic Party's slim majority amid economic challenges and a recent coalition change. While Takaichi enjoys strong approval ratings, opposition parties criticize the timing, citing delays to budget discussions. The vote will also test public support for her economic and security policies amid regional tensions with China.