Japan PM Considers Snap Election as Soon as February

Japan's ruling party is weighing a surprise national election. Senior official Sanae Takaichi confirmed a February vote is "an option." The move would come as Prime Minister Fumio Kishida's government faces low public approval. Political analysts say calling an election early could be a strategic attempt to secure a new mandate before voter sentiment worsens. No final decision has been announced. The current term for Japan's more powerful lower house of parliament does not end until October 2025. Takaichi, a close ally of Kishida, leads the Liberal Democratic Party's political strategy council. Her statement is the strongest signal yet that the government is actively preparing for a snap election.