Japan’s Ruling Coalition Faces Major Setback in Upper House Elections; Far-Right Party Gains Momentum

International News: Japan’s ruling coalition, led by Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba, is facing a serious defeat in the upper house elections held on Sunday. According to Japan’s public broadcaster NHK, the ruling Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) and its ally Komeito are likely to lose several seats, failing to secure a majority in the 248-member upper house of the Japanese Parliament, known as the Diet.

Only six seats remain to be counted, and so far, voters have elected 124 members. To gain a simple majority, Ishiba's coalition needed at least 50 more seats, but current projections suggest that goal will not be met.

Ishiba’s Coalition Set to Win Fewer Than Expected

Exit polls by NHK indicate that the ruling coalition may win between 32 and 51 seats, while other media reports estimate the coalition may secure only 40 to 43 seats. Within the coalition, the LDP is expected to win just 32 to 35 seats—one of its weakest performances in years—although it remains the single largest party in Parliament.

Sanseto Party Makes Strong Entry

The far-right Sanseto Party has gained significant attention in this election. It has attracted voters through its “Japanese First” slogan and strict immigration policies. The party, which started during the COVID-19 pandemic via YouTube, had only one seat earlier. Now, it is expected to win between 10 and 22 seats. The Sanseto Party already holds three seats in the lower house and is rapidly growing as a political force in Japan.

Opposition Gains Support Amid Economic Anger

The main opposition, the Constitutional Democratic Party, is projected to get between 18 and 30 seats, compared to its earlier 22 seats. Several other opposition groups that campaigned on tax reduction promises have also performed well, especially as public anger rises over inflation and the steep increase in rice prices.

Concerns Over Political Instability

Though the outcome of the upper house elections does not directly affect the functioning of the government, the poor performance of the ruling coalition has raised concerns over political stability. Prime Minister Ishiba is already running a minority government, and the possibility of a no-confidence motion is growing stronger. Many within his own party are now openly calling for a change in leadership.

In the lower house elections held last October, Ishiba’s party also suffered its worst defeat in 15 years. After the recent voting, Ishiba admitted the situation is challenging. “This is a difficult moment. I humbly and honestly accept the results,” he said.

Despite the pressure, Ishiba expressed his intention to stay in office. He said he wants to continue leading the country through current economic and national security challenges. “I will carry out my responsibility and work for the nation,” he stated.