Japan PM Sanae Takaichi Calls Snap Election for February 8 to Seek Mandate

Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi announced the dissolution of the lower house on January 23, calling a snap general election for February 8. Seeking a stronger mandate, she aims to secure voter support for increased public spending, a two-year suspension of the 8% consumption tax on food, and a revised security strategy to boost defense spending. This election marks her first electoral test since becoming Japan's first female premier in October and will determine her ability to advance her policy agenda amid economic challenges and regional security concerns.