Japan's Parliament to Vote for New Prime Minister on October 21 Amidst Political Uncertainty

Japan's parliament, the National Diet, is set to convene on October 21 to elect the nation's next prime minister. This pivotal vote follows the resignation of Shigeru Ishiba, who stepped down as Prime Minister and president of the ruling Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) on September 7, 2025. Sanae Takaichi, who secured the LDP leadership on October 4, 2025, is now positioned as the leading candidate to assume the country's top political office, potentially becoming Japan's first female prime minister.

The Parliamentary Election Process

In Japan's parliamentary system, the prime minister is designated by the National Diet from among its members. The process involves a vote in both the House of Representatives and the House of Councillors. Should the two houses select different candidates, the decision of the more powerful House of Representatives ultimately prevails. Typically, the leader of the party or coalition commanding a majority in the House of Representatives is designated as prime minister.

Shigeru Ishiba's Resignation and LDP's Challenges

Shigeru Ishiba's resignation came after approximately one year in office, following significant electoral setbacks for the LDP-Komeito coalition. The ruling coalition suffered defeats in both the 2024 House of Representatives and 2025 House of Councillors elections, resulting in the loss of their majority in both chambers. Reasons cited for the public's dissatisfaction included criticism of economic policies and political corruption scandals. Ishiba, a veteran politician who previously served as Minister of Defense and Minister of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries, had been a prominent figure within the LDP for decades.

Sanae Takaichi: The Leading Candidate

Sanae Takaichi emerged victorious in the LDP presidential election on October 4, 2025, securing her position as the party's new leader. A seasoned politician, Takaichi is known for her conservative stance and is often regarded as a protégé of former Prime Minister Shinzo Abe. Her extensive political career includes serving as Minister for Internal Affairs and Communications and Minister of State for Economic Security. Takaichi's policy priorities emphasize:

• Economic growth, advocating for proactive government spending and the continuation of 'Abenomics'.
• National security, with a focus on strengthening Japan's defense capabilities.
• Traditional values.

Uncertain Path to Premiership

Despite her leadership of the LDP, Sanae Takaichi's path to becoming prime minister is complicated by the current political landscape. The LDP no longer holds a clear majority in both houses of the Diet. Furthermore, the LDP's long-standing coalition partner, Komeito, withdrew from the alliance last week, citing concerns over a political funding scandal and an 'insufficient' response to it. This development means Takaichi will need to secure broader support in the Diet to be formally elected, with opposition parties reportedly exploring options to unite behind an alternative candidate.