TOKYO – Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi has declared her intention to dissolve the House of Representatives this Friday, setting the stage for an unexpected general election scheduled for February 8, 2026. The announcement, made during a Monday evening press conference, marks a significant political maneuver that will test Takaichi’s leadership just months after assuming office.
The electoral process will follow Japan’s established system where voters will select representatives from 289 single-member constituencies alongside 176 proportional representation seats. Media reports indicate the official campaign period will commence on January 27, creating a condensed two-week window for political mobilization.
This snap election arrives despite the current parliamentary term having approximately two years remaining. Japan’s constitution permits such dissolution of the lower house before the completion of the standard four-year legislative term, providing sitting prime ministers with strategic flexibility.
The political landscape has shifted notably since Takaichi’s October 21 inauguration. In response to the conservative ruling coalition, the Constitutional Democratic Party of Japan has joined forces with Komeito, previously a long-standing ally of the ruling Liberal Democratic Party (LDP). This newly formed Centrist Reform Alliance positions itself as the primary opposition force challenging the established power structure.
Takaichi’s decision follows her consultation with senior LDP members and coalition partners last week, indicating a calculated political strategy to capitalize on current circumstances. The February election will serve as the first national referendum on Takaichi’s administration and could significantly reshape Japan’s political alignment.