This headline probably sounds inflammatory without an understanding of the Japanese political system. Basically, Japanese prime ministers can call an election whenever they want. If they do not call for a snap election within four years, then an election is automatically held. An election right now would make sense political sense for Takaichi, as she is popular and likely to be able to bolster the LDP numbers from its current precarious position.
This power to call snap elections is a large reason why the LDP has managed to hold onto power: elections are held at the convenience of the ruling party. There have been brief periods of time in which the LDP has not been in power though (2009 to 2012 most notably).
Sorry if this like an unnecessary explanation, but the headline really does just read as inflammatory to me.
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This headline probably sounds inflammatory without an understanding of the Japanese political system. Basically, Japanese prime ministers can call an election whenever they want. If they do not call for a snap election within four years, then an election is automatically held. An election right now would make sense political sense for Takaichi, as she is popular and likely to be able to bolster the LDP numbers from its current precarious position.
This power to call snap elections is a large reason why the LDP has managed to hold onto power: elections are held at the convenience of the ruling party. There have been brief periods of time in which the LDP has not been in power though (2009 to 2012 most notably).
Sorry if this like an unnecessary explanation, but the headline really does just read as inflammatory to me.