Japan’s Takaichi vows to deliver on tax cuts after LDP’s ‘historic’ win | Politics News
Liberal Democratic Party Expected to Secure 316 Seats in Japan’s Lower House
Japan’s Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi has pledged to reduce taxes and maintain her cabinet members after her Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) achieved a significant victory in Sunday’s general election.
Projections from NHK indicated the LDP will secure 316 seats in the 500-member National Assembly, marking the party’s best performance since its founding in 1955 and granting it a “historic” two-thirds majority in the lower house.
The LDP’s previous record was set in 1986 when it won 300 seats under former Prime Minister Yasuhiro Nakasone. Meanwhile, the LDP’s junior coalition partner, the Japan Innovation Party, claimed 36 seats, while the main opposition, the Centrist Reform Alliance, saw its representation drop to 49 seats from 172.
Analysts attribute the LDP’s success to Takaichi’s remarkable popularity as Japan’s first female leader. This electoral mandate is expected to facilitate significant changes in Japan’s security, immigration, and economic policies.
In a televised interview with NHK on Monday, Takaichi emphasized her commitment to enhancing Japan’s strength and prosperity. She reiterated the LDP’s intention to lower consumption taxes, including a proposed two-year suspension of the 8 percent food sales tax aimed at alleviating household costs.
“Most parties support reducing the consumption tax, whether that means eliminating it on food items or lowering it for all items,” Takaichi noted. She called for the establishment of a bipartisan forum to expedite discussions on the matter, deeming it a significant issue.
Takaichi indicated that she intends to retain her current cabinet, describing it as a “good team.” The head of Japan’s main business lobby, Keidanren, expressed optimism about the election outcome, suggesting it would promote political stability during a critical phase for Japan’s economy.
Yoshinobu Tsutsui, the Keidanren leader, remarked, “Japan’s economy is now at a critical juncture for achieving sustainable and strong growth.”
Internationally, U.S. President Donald Trump, who endorsed Takaichi prior to the election, congratulated her via social media, wishing her “Great Success.” South Korean President Lee Jae Myung, as well as leaders from India, Italy, and Taiwan, also extended congratulations.
However, Takaichi’s relationship with China may be strained due to past remarks suggesting Japan’s potential military involvement in defense of Taiwan, which Beijing regards as its territory. Experts predict that how she navigates Tokyo’s relationship with Beijing will be pivotal to her foreign policy.
David Boling, a principal at the Asia Group, noted, “Beijing will not welcome Takaichi’s victory.” He added that China now faces the reality of Takaichi’s consolidation of power and the failure of its efforts to isolate her politically.
