Japan’s ruling party LDP loses majority amid scandals, public discontent

Japan’s ruling Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) and its coalition partner Komeito lost their parliamentary majority in Sunday’s election for the first time in 15 years, winning only 191 seats, a fall from its 247-seat majority.

Partnering with Komeito, the coalition now holds just 215 of the 465 seats, well below the 233-seat majority needed.

The loss comes amid growing distrust sparked by corruption scandals that prompted former Prime Minister Fumio Kishida’s resignation in September. His successor, Shigeru Ishiba, vowed to restore public trust.

However, Ishiba’s approval has plummeted as he struggled to convince voters of genuine change.

The LDP still holds the most seats, but opposition parties are now negotiating potential alliances.

Although a coalition government could give these opposition parties more legislative influence, experts warn that Japan’s political stability remains uncertain, particularly given rising inflation and regional security concerns with China.