Takaichi's coalition partner confirms speculation about early elections in Japan
Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi could call early general elections, said Hirofumi Jošimura, head of her party's coalition partner, on Sunday after media reports that she was considering a February vote.
An early election could allow Takaichi, Japan's first female prime minister, to capitalize on the strong popularity she has enjoyed since taking office in October. Her tough stance on China, which has sparked a major diplomatic row with Japan's influential Asian neighbor, has appealed to right-wing voters,
Yoshimura, leader of the reformist right-wing Japan Innovation Party, told public broadcaster NHK that he met with Takaichi on Friday and felt that her view on the timing of the election had shifted to a new "level."
"I wouldn't be surprised if she decided as reported in the media," Yoshimura said. The Yomiuri newspaper reported on Friday, citing government sources, that Takaichi was considering early elections on February 8 or 15.
However, Yoshimura said that he had not discussed the specific timing of the election with Takaichi.
Takaichi, a staunch conservative and advocate of big spending, remained silent on when she would call the election in an interview with NHK that was recorded on Thursday and aired on Sunday.
(reuters, im)