Japan's ruling coalition set to lose majority in key election, NHK reports

Japan's Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba's ruling coalition is projected to lose its majority in the lower house during the parliamentary election on Sunday. This shift is attributed to public anger over financial scandals involving the Liberal Democratic Party (LDP). NHK exit polls indicate the LDP may secure between 153 and 219 seats, down from 247. The junior coalition partner, Komeito, is expected to win 21 to 35 seats. If the coalition falls short of a majority, Ishiba may need to seek additional support to pass legislation. Ishiba, who took office on October 1, called the snap election to bolster support after his predecessor's resignation. The opposition, led by the Constitutional Democratic Party, is anticipated to gain seats, potentially increasing from 98 to as many as 191.