Tokyo: Japan is gearing up for a decisive parliamentary vote to select its next prime minister on October 21, 2025, following political turbulence that has shaken the country’s long-standing ruling coalition. The extraordinary session of the Diet is expected to determine whether Sanae Takaichi, recently elected leader of the Liberal Democratic Party, will become Japan’s first female prime minister.

Takaichi’s path to leadership faces significant hurdles after the collapse of the decades-long coalition between the LDP and its longtime partner, Komeito. Disagreements over political funding reforms and handling of recent scandals prompted Komeito to withdraw its support, leaving the LDP without a clear parliamentary majority.

To secure enough backing, Takaichi has been negotiating with the Japan Innovation Party, a smaller right-leaning party, aligning on key policy areas such as security and energy. At the same time, opposition parties are exploring ways to consolidate their votes and challenge her leadership bid, raising the possibility of a more contested vote than initially expected.

The outcome of the October 21 vote will not only determine the next prime minister but could also reshape Japan’s political landscape. Observers note that a cohesive opposition strategy combined with the absence of Komeito could open the door to a non-LDP prime minister, an unprecedented shift in Japanese politics.

As the Diet session approaches, all eyes will be on the negotiations and alliances that will decide the future leadership of Japan, amid a climate of uncertainty and heightened public attention.