TOKYO, July 20: Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba’s ruling coalition is projected to lose its majority in Japan’s upper house, according to exit polls, deepening political uncertainty. Voters selected half of the 248 seats, with the coalition needing 50 more to retain a simple majority.
NHK and other networks projected only 32–51 seats for the coalition, a sharp drop from 141. Despite the setback, Ishiba vowed to stay on, attributing the loss to delayed impact of economic measures. Key issues include rising prices, stagnant wages, and stricter immigration policies, fueling support for populist and opposition parties.
The CDPJ, DPP, and right-wing Sanseito party made significant gains. Though the upper house can’t trigger a no-confidence vote, the result may force Ishiba to consider forming new alliances. Growing xenophobia and populist rhetoric have sparked concern among voters and rights groups. The election reflects a nation divided between a desire for political stability and a call for change. (AP)
