The political world has been abruptly in motion since the start of the new year. Prime Minister Takaichi decided to dissolve the House of Representatives at the beginning of the regular Diet session, which convened on January 23rd. With the vote expected to be counted on February 8th, the Constitutional Democratic Party and the Komeito Party, calling for a centrist coalition, have formed a new party. With high approval ratings as a backdrop, Prime Minister Takaichi is aiming for a majority on her own, but will this turn out to be a blessing or a curse? There will likely be many people who rebel against the blatant party politics, feeling that politics is not for the people. On the other hand, the vague, centrist new party will be hard pressed to shake off the impression that it is an election-strategy coalition, and will not be to their advantage. (Kei)

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