LDP Achieves Two-Thirds Majority in Japan Elections

The Liberal Democratic Party of Japan, led by Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi, has achieved a favorable performance in the recent House of Representatives elections, reflecting a significant recovery of electoral support. The results have allowed the ruling party to advance toward the two-thirds majority needed to push for constitutional changes.

Polls Predicted Advantage for the Ruling Party

Prior to the February 8 election day, surveys conducted by the Asahi Shimbun newspaper indicated optimistic prospects for the LDP. According to projections released by Ming Pao, the political group expected to secure more than 233 seats in the House of Representatives, a figure that far exceeds the simple majority threshold established in the legislative body.

The Ruling Coalition Seeks the Two-Thirds Majority

In alliance with the Japan Innovation Party, the ruling coalition projected to surpass the 310-seat barrier, enabling them to hold the two-thirds majority necessary to propose constitutional amendments. This proportion of votes is essential in the Japanese parliamentary system for any revision of the supreme law to advance in the House of Representatives.

Pending Challenges for Constitutional Reform

Despite the favorable performance in the Lower House, the Takaichi administration faces significant obstacles in fulfilling its reform ambitions. Obtaining the two-thirds majority is also required in the House of Councillors for constitutional amendments to be considered valid. Additionally, any constitutional reform must be submitted to a national referendum, a mechanism that introduces uncertainty regarding the final success of the Japanese government’s reform agenda.