Japan’s Ruling Party Set to Retain Power in Upcoming Election

Campaigning has officially kicked off in Japan for the October 27 election, with new Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba seeking to maintain his party’s majority. The Liberal Democratic Party (LDP), which has governed Japan almost uninterrupted for decades, is favored to win, with a recent poll showing the party at 26.4% and its junior partner, Komeito, at 12.4%, while the opposition Constitutional Democratic Party of Japan (CDP) trails at 12.4%.

Loudspeaker trucks are already circulating, and candidates are handing out fliers as the party faces key challenges, including price rises, regional security, and the lingering effects of a slush fund scandal that has rocked the party. The LDP is looking to shore up support for its policies, including plans to revitalize depopulated rural areas and reform the Japan-US security treaty.

The party’s leader, Ishiba, has also called for the creation of a regional military alliance to counter China and address concerns over deflation, while also supporting measures to boost low-income households. Meanwhile, the opposition is pushing for liberal support on the issue of married women retaining their maiden names, a thorny issue in a country where Japan is the only nation that requires couples to choose one of their surnames.

Despite the challenges, the LDP remains the clear favorite to win, with its coalition partner, Komeito, likely to follow suit. However, the party will need to convince voters that it is serious about clean governance and transparency after a string of scandals, including ties to the Unification Church. The outcome of the election will be closely watched, not only in Japan but also internationally, as it could have significant implications for the region’s politics and economy.