New LDP leadership changes prospects for Japan's ruling coalition

FILE PHOTO: Senior officials and members of the Japan Innovation Party attend a convention in Chiyoda Ward, Tokyo, in March, 2025. The Japan Innovation Party, previously seen as a strong candidate to join the coalition, has now shifted to a wait-and-see stance. - The Japan News/ANN

TOKYO: Sanae Takaichi’s election as the new leader of the Liberal Democratic Party has changed the dynamics among opposition parties regarding whom the ruling LDP-Komeito bloc will join forces with.

The Japan Innovation Party, previously seen as a strong candidate to join the coalition, has shifted to a wait-and-see stance, while the Democratic Party for the People remains cautious, making an early coalition agreement difficult.