Japan PM Takaichi Weighs Snap Election in February

Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi is weighing the option of dissolving the Lower House of parliament for a snap general election in early February, government sources indicated, as she seeks to solidify her coalition's position amid rising approval ratings and pressing economic concerns.

The potential move comes as Takaichi, who became Japan's first female prime minister in October after leading the Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) to victory in its internal contest, navigates a fragile majority in the 465-seat Lower House. Her LDP is allied with the Japan Innovation Party, known as Ishin, but the coalition holds just a few seats short of the 233 needed for control. A dissolution would require an election within 40 days, with possible dates of February 8 or 15 under consideration, according to reports citing officials. Parliament's regular session is set to open on January 23, and sources suggest a possible dissolution as early as that date or an announcement on January 27 or February 3.

Takaichi's decision appears driven by her strong public support, fueled in part by a firm stance on regional security issues. Late last year, she described a potential Chinese attack on...