‘Iron Lady’ Sanae Takaichi coalition sweeps Japan snap poll, secures two-thirds Lower House majority

Japan Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi’s ruling coalition clinched a landslide victory in the snap election, securing two-thirds of Lower House seats and clearing the path for tax cuts, defence expansion and key policy reforms.

Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi’s ruling coalition registered a landslide victory in Sunday’s snap general election, securing a commanding two-thirds majority in Parliament’s Lower House, strengthening her hand to push through sweeping economic reforms and enhanced defence spending aimed at countering China.

Takaichi’s Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) was projected to win around 328 of the 465 seats, comfortably crossing the 233-seat majority mark within hours of counting, according to public broadcaster NHK.

Together with coalition partner Japan Innovation Party (Ishin), the government has secured a supermajority, giving it the numbers required to fast-track legislation and advance constitutional and security-related reforms.

First woman PM’s strong mandate

The 64-year-old conservative leader, Japan’s first female Prime Minister, has often said she draws inspiration from former British Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher, earning her the nickname “Iron Lady.”

Speaking as results came in, Takaichi described the vote as a decisive endorsement of her policy agenda.

“This election involved major policy shifts — particularly in economic and fiscal policy, as well as strengthening security policy,” she said.
“If we have received the public’s support, then we must tackle these issues with all our strength.”

Focus on tax cuts and defence

Her government plans to introduce tax reductions and fiscal stimulus measures, proposals that have unsettled financial markets over concerns about Japan’s already high public debt.

At the same time, Takaichi has pledged to boost military spending and strengthen national security, citing growing regional threats and China’s expanding influence.

Analysts say the supermajority will allow her administration to pass contentious reforms with limited opposition resistance.

Snap poll gamble pays off

Takaichi had called the rare winter snap election to capitalise on her strong personal approval ratings since assuming leadership of the LDP last year. The strategy appears to have paid off, delivering her one of the most decisive mandates in recent years.

Modi congratulates

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi congratulated Takaichi on her victory.

“Congratulations Sanae Takaichi on your landmark victory in the elections to the House of Representatives,” Modi posted on X.

The win is expected to further strengthen India–Japan strategic ties, particularly in areas of defence cooperation, trade and Indo-Pacific security.

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