PM Ishiba Suffers Major Setback in Japan. His coalition failed to secure a majority in both houses in the parliamentary elections, increasing political instability in the country.
Japan Election 2025: A major upset has been witnessed in Japanese politics. The ruling coalition led by Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba has not only lagged behind in the lower house of parliament but has also failed to secure a majority in the upper house. This defeat is not just an election result but a sign of instability in Japanese politics.
Coalition Misses Majority in Upper House
In Japan's parliament, known as the 'Diet', voting took place on Sunday for 124 of the 248 seats in the upper house, the 'House of Councillors'. Prime Minister Ishiba's Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) and its coalition partner Komeito needed 50 more seats in addition to the existing 75 to remain in power. However, the coalition only managed to win 47 seats. The result of one seat is still pending.
Second Major Blow After Lower House Defeat
Earlier, Prime Minister Ishiba's coalition had also faced defeat in the lower house. Now, losing the majority in both houses has weakened the coalition's position. This is a major turning point for Japanese politics because this is the first time since the establishment of the LDP in 1955 that the party has lost a majority in both houses. This defeat not only raises questions about Ishiba's leadership strength but also challenges Japan's internal political stability.
Ishiba's Reaction: Accepts Defeat but Remains Resolved
Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba, while accepting the election results, said that he accepts this defeat with humility and sincerity. He clarified that he will continue to fulfill his responsibilities as the top party leader and will remain engaged in the service of the country. Ishiba acknowledged that the benefits of his government's economic policies did not reach the public in a timely manner, which is why this defeat occurred.
Why Won't the Government Change Yet?
Although losing the majority in the upper house is a serious blow, it does not mean that the Ishiba government will change immediately. According to Japan's constitutional provisions, the upper house does not have the power to bring a no-confidence motion against the Prime Minister. This means that the government can remain in power as long as support remains in the lower house.
Exit Polls Had Issued a Warning
Even before the election, exit polls had predicted the Ishiba government's defeat. According to Japan's NHK television, the coalition was expected to win between 32 and 51 seats. Other channels also estimated that the coalition would only win more than 40 seats.
