TOKYO: Japan’s ruling coalition suffered a significant setback in the recent Lower House elections, losing its majority according to official results released on Monday. The coalition, led by Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba’s Liberal Democratic Party (LDP), failed to secure the necessary 233 seats to maintain a majority in the 465-member house, which holds the power to appoint a prime minister.
According to Kuwait News Agency, the LDP secured 191 seats, a steep decline from the 256 it previously held, reflecting voter dissatisfaction following a funds scandal. Its coalition partner, Komeito, also saw a decrease, finishing with 24 seats, down from 32. In total, the LDP-Komeito alliance garnered 215 seats.
The main opposition party, the Constitutional Democratic Party, made significant gains, securing 148 seats, up from its previous 98. Additionally, the Japan Innovation Party won 38 seats, indicating a shift in voter support.
Prime Minister Ishiba acknowledged the election results, stating, “I recognize that
we are being judged very harshly. We must accept this with humility and solemnity,” during a television program aired on NHK. The election saw 1,344 candidates vying for the available 465 seats, with 289 contested in single-seat constituencies and 176 through proportional representation across 11 regions. NHK reported that voter turnout was approximately 53.84 percent.
To maintain his administration, the Prime Minister plans to seek cooperation from parties that share common policies with his government, NHK reported.