Japan's ruling coalition loses majority in lower house election

Japan's ruling coalition, led by Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba, lost its majority in the lower house during a recent election, securing only 215 seats, down from 279. This shift follows public dissatisfaction over financial scandals involving the Liberal Democratic Party (LDP). Despite remaining the largest party, the LDP may struggle to pass legislation without a third coalition partner. The opposition Constitutional Democratic Party of Japan gained significantly, increasing its seats from 98 to 148, while Ishiba's coalition retains a majority in the upper house. Ishiba, who took office on October 1, acknowledged the election results as a serious message from voters. He indicated a willingness to cooperate with opposition parties to address public concerns and pursue key policies, including a supplementary budget and political reform.