Japan’s Ruling Coalition Splits, Throwing Takaichi’s PM Bid Into Doubt

Japan’s Komeito party said it would withdraw from its coalition with the ruling Liberal Democratic Party (LDP), throwing the LDP’s grip on power into uncertainty as new leader Sanae Takaichi awaits a parliamentary vote to confirm her as prime minister, Makiko Yamazaki, Kantaro Komiya, and Tim Kelly reported for Reuters.

The LDP has governed Japan for most of the postwar period, but the coalition’s collapse has added new uncertainty to its dominance. (Photo: 高市早苗 X)

Komeito leader Tetsuo Saito told party members that the 26-year partnership had broken down over what he described as the LDP’s “inadequate” explanation of its handling of a political funding scandal that has roiled the ruling bloc.

He said Komeito would not back Takaichi in the parliamentary vote expected later this month.

Takaichi, chosen by the LDP as its new leader on Saturday, inherits a party 37 seats short of a majority in the lower house of parliament. Without Komeito’s support, she will need backing from at least two other parties to pass legislation. The LDP also holds only a minority in the less powerful upper house.

The LDP has governed Japan for most of the postwar period, but the coalition’s collapse has added new uncertainty to its dominance.

Takaichi’s selection last week dampened market expectations for a near-term interest rate hike, sending stocks higher and weakening the yen. She is known for her staunch support of former Prime Minister Shinzo Abe’s “Abenomics” stimulus policies.